From last year, students studying their VCE now have the opportunity to complete it as a Vocational Major, which for Annameike Cozens, not only saw her choose to stay and finish school, but created opportunities that saw her delivering work above and beyond expectation.

Growing up on a farm, Annameike never shied from hard work and from a young age it fostered in her a love of caring for animals. By electing to study VCE Vocational Major, she was able to follow this passion, using a hands-on approach, through work placements and community projects. Annameike reflects, “It was really good. I enjoyed school a lot. It (VCE VM) was very hands-on.”

Her practical learning experience initially began in Year 10, with a round of work experience at Warrnambool Veterinary Clinic, allowing her to test the water of life as a veterinary nurse. This experience more than confirmed for Annameike that she was headed in the right direction, and is entirely grateful for the experience and the now ongoing connection to the business. “I feel fortunate because placements can be tough to secure,” she says.

Throughout her VCE studies Annameike demonstrated exceptional leadership by organising projects that engaged staff, students, and local youth in the Agricultural Industry. Her work included group and individual projects, tours of key industries, and a full day of immersion with Monk and Sons, showcasing her ability to connect with stakeholders. She also facilitated a talk with a Women in Dairy representative and arranged a tour of a pioneering robotic dairy, adding innovation to the experience. The trip she arranged to the Women in Trade expo in Melbourne, was a standout for her, where she rallied a group of 40 girls from Years 10 through 12 to attend the expo, which featured hundreds of businesses and activities to try. “It has definitely inspired a few of the girls, which is good.” she notes.

Annameike’s achievements in leadership, networking, community projects, and academics, ultimately saw her awarded Emmanuel’s VCE VM Dux, and more recently the Premier’s Award for Outstanding VCE Vocational Major Student. Annameike was presented the award by Premier, Jacinta Allan, at a ceremony at the Melbourne Convention Centre in front of her fellow awardees, their families and special guests.

Continuing in her studies, Annameike is completing her Veterinary Nursing studies at TAFE, while still enjoying a two 10-hour days placement at the clinic. However, she still finds time to look to the future and has already invested in a tractor. With this shiny new machine she is establishing a business of her own providing services in hay silage, seeding, and spreading.

The future is certainly bright for this young entrepreneur – congratulations Annameike!