But for Armidale Secondary College HSC graduate Jordan King having receive an early scholarship recipient made the journey through to graduation much less stressful.

Jordan is a recipient of the prized Australian National University Tuckwell Scholarship for 2022 - which was awarded before he completed his higher school certificate.

The Tuckwell Scholarship Program is one of the most transformational undergraduate scholarship programs in Australia.

Jordan attributes his leadership experience as school captain as one of the reasons behind his successful application.

"Being the school captain developed my teamwork skills, selflessness, and gave me the ability to challenge myself in applying for such a prestigious scholarship," Jordan said.

"Everyone applying for the scholarship were extremely smart and talented individuals from all across Australia so naturally, my academic track record was important as well.

"I have always valued my education and wanted to do well to meet my own personal expectations and goals."

Jordan's ongoing interest in science led him to discover the scholarship which will enable him to undertake the Bachelor of Advanced Science course and also reduce some of the financial burden faced by students as they enter tertiary education.

"I was attracted to the Bachelor of Advanced Science course at ANU because it aligns with my desire to potentially go into research someday with the 4th year honors pathway allowing exploration of particular areas of interest that I will no doubt develop during my studies," Jordan explained.

"This scholarship is great not just for the financial support but for the mentoring and supportive community offered in which I will be able to forge great friendships that will persist long into the future."

As outgoing school captain Jordan has offered some advice to the incoming year 12 cohort at Armidale Secondary College.

Including his hope that 2022 offers a smoother ride and fewer struggles than he and his peers encountered this year.

"Something I have come to learn this year is that hard work is the foundation of success," Jordan said.

"No matter how extravagant and unachievable your goals and dreams may seem if you work hard during your last year of school so many fantastic opportunities will open up for you.

"I didn't ever picture myself attaining this scholarship when I applied, but all it took was backing myself and believing in my abilities and accomplishments up until this point.

"I hope that my success in becoming a Tuckwell Scholar highlights that growing up and being educated in a smaller rural area as opposed to a big city is not a disadvantage.

"I would strongly encourage other students from schools in my area to consider applying for this transformational experience in the future as well."

Jordan is looking forward to meeting the other 24 scholars who as he described, "are all hardworking and driven like-minded individuals with unique interests and range of talents".