Pictured: Principal Mark Ashmore and 2024 Dux, Jordi Dermitzakis.
On behalf of our community, I congratulate our 2024 Dux, Jordi Dermitzakis, who achieved outstanding ATARs of 99.45, putting him in the top 0.05% of all Year 12 students in the state.
Achieving a study score of 49 in Applied Computing, 47 in Physics, 45 in English, 42 in Mathematical Methods, 41 in Religion and Society (in 2023) and 34 in Languages – Greek (in 2023).
Jordi intends to study his first preference of Engineering (Honours)/Computer Science Monash University (Clayton).
I spoke with Jordi about how he kept his focus in his later years and the key individuals who supported and guided him. I also had the opportunity to listen and learn about his aspirations for the future.
Mark Ashmore
Principal
2024 Dux Interview Questions
Can you explain what motivated you to achieve excellence?
My motivation stemmed from a deep desire to push my boundaries and uncover my full potential, even when the challenges ahead seemed daunting. I was driven by the idea of proving to myself that I could not only meet but exceed the expectations set before me. It was about showing that, with effort and determination, I could rise to any challenge and demonstrate that my capabilities are greater than I might have imagined.
Now that the results are in, what are your next steps?
Now that the results are in, my immediate focus is on relaxing and spending quality time with my family and friends, who have been a tremendous source of support throughout the year. I plan to continue casually working to stay productive while also allowing myself time to recharge. Looking ahead, I’m excited to pursue a double degree in Engineering and Computer Science at Monash University.
With outstanding results come many opportunities. How will you use these to work towards your long-term goals?
Outstanding results open doors to a wide range of opportunities, and I plan to use them as a springboard to achieve my goals. These results will help me develop the technical skills and critical thinking necessary for a career in innovation and problem-solving.
If you had to describe yourself in just four words, what would they be?
Hardworking, Driven, Courteous, Efficient
In what ways have your teachers supported and kept you on track throughout Year 12?
The teachers at school consistently dedicated their time and effort to support my learning. They were always accessible, whether in person or through email, and went above and beyond to challenge me and encourage my growth, demonstrating their belief in my potential to excel. A special mention to all the teachers I have had throughout my Salesian journey, especially my year 12 teachers: Mr Khambete, Mr Andrews, Mrs Poulose and Ms Nazar for their continuous support.
How have courage and determination contributed to your success in achieving your goals?
Courage has helped me step outside my comfort zone and take on challenges that initially felt overwhelming, whether it was tackling difficult topics in my studies, speaking up in class discussions, or pursuing leadership opportunities. Determination, on the other hand, has been about consistency and resilience. It’s easy to stay motivated when everything is going smoothly but it’s during setbacks that determination really counts. There were times when I felt exhausted or doubted my abilities, but I reminded myself of my goals and the effort I’d already invested. Together, these skills have allowed me to see challenges not as obstacles, but as opportunities for growth.
What lessons have your relationships at Salesian taught you?
My relationships at Salesian have shown me that working with peers and sharing ideas can lead to better outcomes than working alone. I have learned the importance of empathy, respect, and mutual support and I will carry these lessons with me, knowing they have shaped both my personal growth and my approach to teamwork.
What three pieces of advice would you give to current students?
Firstly, mastering time management. It’s not just about fitting everything in but prioritizing what matters most. Create a schedule that includes dedicated study time, but don’t forget to include breaks and moments for relaxation. Maintaining a balance is crucial for your mental health and ensures you don’t burn out.
Secondly, don’t be afraid to seek support from teachers and peers. No one achieves success entirely on their own, and reaching out for help is a strength, not a weakness. Whether it’s asking a teacher to explain a challenging concept or discussing ideas with classmates, collaboration can deepen your understanding and make the journey less isolating. Teachers are there to support you, and peers can offer fresh perspectives so take advantage of these resources.
Lastly, make sure to stay resilient. Year 12 is full of challenges, and setbacks are inevitable. The key is to view these moments as opportunities to learn and grow. If something doesn’t go as planned, take a moment to reflect, adapt, and try again. Resilience is about persistence and maintaining a positive attitude, even when the road gets tough. Remember, every setback brings you one step closer to achieving your goals if you don’t give up.
How did you manage to excel academically while also participating in extracurricular activities during your time at the College?
Excelling academically while participating in extracurricular activities required effective time management and strategic planning. Completing two Unit 3 & 4 subjects in Year 11 gave me additional flexibility this year, allowing me to maintain hobbies and casual work, which provided a much-needed break from my studies. I made the most of my free periods and study halls at school, using them to stay on top of content and prepare for SAC’s. This approach ensured I had dedicated time for both academic responsibilities and personal interests, helping me maintain a balanced and productive routine throughout the year.
What has been the most rewarding part of your Year 12 journey?
The most rewarding part of my Year 12 journey has been the connections I’ve built and the memories I’ve made with my peers. Going through the challenges and triumphs of this final year together strengthened our bonds and created a sense of camaraderie that made even the toughest moments feel manageable. I made a conscious effort to find joy in the experience, from celebrating small victories to making the most of shared moments with friends. Seeing my ATAR and results at the end of it all was truly the icing on the cake, but the journey itself and the relationships I’ve fostered have been the most meaningful aspects of this year.
How do you plan to apply the skills and knowledge you’ve gained in the future?
I plan to apply the skills and knowledge I’ve gained by leveraging them in my future studies and career. The critical thinking, problem-solving, and time management skills I’ve developed will be invaluable as I pursue my university degree. Ultimately, I hope to apply what I’ve learned to make a meaningful impact in the field of technology and engineering.