Balwyn High School student Anne Pham is one of this year’s students who scored a perfect 99.95 ATAR score.

The 17-year-old is one of the recipients of the University of Melbourne’s prestigious Chancellor’s Scholarship, which grants a fee-free degree along with an annual allowance of up to $10,000.

Anne told TiVi Tuan-san in an email statement that she couldn’t be happier with her result, “I was ecstatic and over the moon! I was so happy that it’s an understatement.

“I feel like it’s given me the freedom to pursue any career pathway I want. ”

Anne attributes hard work, along with the support from her family, friend and teachers, as major factors in helping her achieve the perfect ATAR score.

“First is the desire to learn and work hard and be resilient through the years,” Anne said.

“Second is the unwavering support from friends and family–I’m so thankful for being able to just talk at any time to people who really care about me and how I’m doing. It really makes a big difference.

“Lastly, It’s the teachers. My teachers all had this passion–they absolutely loved their subject and it was infectious.

“I’m also so grateful for being able to send last minute emails and get a reply, and being encouraged to ask questions at anytime. I wouldn’t have made it this far without them.”

Anne’s sister and mother arrived in Australia from Vietnam in 1999.

She plans to undertake a masters degree in medicine and study abroad.