Sitting year 12 exams is a significant milestone for any student, but for Nathan Barbara, it marks a remarkable triumph over adversity. Less than a year after undergoing a heart transplant, Nathan is among nearly 75,000 students in New South Wales who will complete their Higher School Certificate (HSC) written exams over the coming weeks, starting with English on Thursday.
“The last year has been challenging and stressful, but I just wanted to graduate with my year group and peers,” Nathan shared. The 18-year-old, a student at Marist College Eastwood in Sydney’s north-west, unexpectedly fell seriously ill at the end of year 11, necessitating a heart transplant and months of hospitalization. “It was a shock as I am an active person,” he recalled.
A Challenging Journey
Nathan Barbara is no stranger to overcoming obstacles. As a double amputee since childhood, he has excelled in Para-athletics, competing in discus and shot put and setting national records, all while balancing his academic responsibilities. “I’ve always set goals, and I always try my best in anything I do — it’s a part of the resilience I’ve gained throughout the challenges I’ve had to face during life,” he said.
His journey through high school began amid the COVID-19 lockdowns, which forced students to adapt to remote learning and social isolation. Years later, Nathan faced another period of separation from his peers due to his health crisis. “I missed the first term of year 12, and then I returned on a staggered basis,” he explained, crediting his resilience and the support of his teachers and family for helping him navigate these challenges.
Sharing this journey with his twin sister Isabella, Nathan expressed gratitude for her companionship. “It’s always been really good to have a friend by my side that I have been able to rely on when things do get tough and she’s able to rely on me when things get tough for her,” he said.
Nathan’s mother, Claudia Barbara, expressed her pride in her children’s accomplishments. “They’ve both very much dealt with those challenges and their journey with such determination and maturity, well beyond their years,” she said. “It’s just nice to see your children grow into the young adults you hoped they would be.”
Thousands to Sit Exams Across NSW
As the HSC written exams conclude on November 7, students will have completed over 400,000 exam sessions across 123 subjects, ranging from food technology to mathematics. Acting Education Minister Courtney Houssos expressed gratitude to the education staff for their dedication to the year 12 cohort. “Thank you to the hard-working teachers of NSW who’ve prepared HSC students for this moment and to all the teachers who have guided students through their 13 years of schooling,” she said.
Students will eagerly await their results, which are set to be published on December 18. However, for Nathan, the anticipation is less daunting. He has already received an early entry offer into his desired university course — a Bachelor of Business, with hopes of majoring in sport management. “I’ve been fortunate that I’ve been able to do enough to motivate myself to complete my HSC. It was a huge goal of mine,” Nathan said, reflecting on his achievements.
Looking Ahead
Nathan’s story is one of resilience and determination, serving as an inspiration to many. His journey from a heart transplant to sitting his final exams is a testament to his strength and the support network that has surrounded him. As he prepares to embark on the next chapter of his life, Nathan’s achievements offer a powerful reminder of the human spirit’s capacity to overcome adversity.
The broader context of Nathan’s story highlights the challenges faced by students across the globe, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and personal health crises. It underscores the importance of resilience, community support, and the unwavering dedication of educators who guide students through their academic journeys.
As Nathan and his peers await their exam results, they stand on the cusp of new opportunities and experiences, ready to take on the world with the lessons learned from their unique and challenging high school years.
