What does it take to push through the HSC, stay motivated at uni, and build a future in engineering or space? In this episode of the HSC CoWorks podcast, Host Caitlin sits down with Leo, a mechanical and space engineering student at the University of Sydney, to talk about the mindset shifts and study strategies that helped him succeed. From setting a goal ATAR to working through past papers under time pressure, Leo shares practical advice for students who want to improve their maths results and build confidence under exam conditions.
Leo also opens up about the power of having a clear vision for the future whether that’s a dream university degree, a career in Formula 1, or a role in the space industry! In Year 11, he wasn’t sure what direction he wanted to take. But after attending a university open day, everything changed. He found a goal that gave him focus: space engineering.That goal became a powerful motivator. Leo explains that once he had something specific to work toward, his effort increased and his marks improved.
Why past papers matter more than textbooks
When asked about the most common mistake students make in maths preparation, Leo says many rely too heavily on homework or textbook questions. While those can be useful when learning content, they often don’t match the style or difficulty of real exam questions. His advice is simple:
- Start using past papers as early as possible
- Focus on school-specific and past HSC exam papers first
- Practise under timed conditions
- Use hard questions to stretch your thinking
Leo makes an important point here: exam performance isn’t just about knowing the content. It’s also about recognising patterns, managing time, and learning how questions are framed.
Build understanding before rushing into practice
Leo’s study strategy begins with a strong foundation. Before diving into question after question, he recommends making sure you truly understand the content. That means:
- Reviewing the syllabus
- Revisiting any topics you missed or forgot
- Doing easier questions first to check your understanding
- Only then moving into past papers and harder problems
This staged approach helps students avoid the trap of doing hundreds of questions without really learning from them. Instead of aiming for speed too early, Leo encourages students to build confidence first and then challenge themselves. But don’t use this as a delay tactic and run out of time for real exam training!
Engineering is about more than theory
In this podcast episode, Leo gives some insights into his University Degree at USYD – Bachelor Mechanical Engineering with a minor in Space Engineering. In first year, students are exposed to a wide range of engineering disciplines, which helps them discover what they enjoy most. Leo describes this as a valuable chance to test different directions before specialising. He also talks about a standout first-year project: designing and building a pneumatic engine in a computer simulation and workshop setting. Although his group’s engine didn’t work perfectly in the end, the experience was still meaningful because it brought the theory to life. As the degree progresses, the work becomes more specialised, but the excitement returns in the final year, when students can choose electives, develop a thesis, and work on projects like building a satellite.
Dream jobs can become daily motivation
Leo’s long-term goals are just as inspiring as his study advice. He’s interested in either F1 or the space industry which are both highly competitive fields that require dedication and skill.What helps him stay focused? Visual reminders. He keeps an F1 poster on his wall as a kind of vision board, something he sees every day to remind him what he’s working toward. Leo encourages all HSC Students to maintain motivation during a very long and difficult year by having a Vision Board and your goals visible. Whether it’s a poster, a written target, or a note in your study space, having a reminder of your future can help you keep going when study gets tough.
Key takeaways for students
This episode is packed with practical advice, but the biggest lessons are simple:
- Choose a clear goal to work toward
- Use past papers, not just textbook questions
- Practice under real exam conditions
- Learn the content before rushing into hard problems
- Keep your dream visible so it keeps motivating you
Leo’s story shows that success doesn’t come from talent alone. It comes from clarity, discipline, and the willingness to do hard things consistently. If you’re preparing for exams or trying to stay motivated through a demanding degree, this episode is a great reminder that progress starts with vision.
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Sarah Gardiner
Director of Operations & Strategy, HSC CoWorks
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