While clearing out somepaperwork recently, I came across a copy of my daughter's submission to the UAC for special consideration in the HSC back in 2012. One of my friends did the same for her daughter last year after many medical issues despite her daughter being adamant initally, that she didn't want to apply. So, it occurred to me that it might be useful to share our experience here and open a dialogue about the pros and cons. My daughter suffers from anxiety and depression, missed a lot of school, exacerbated by a bout of glandular fever in yr 11. In fact, as I read through all the documentation again just now, I cried at being reminded of her struggle..... But before I go on, let me tell you where she is now. She worked full time since school, trained as a lifeline counsellor while working fulltime and this year she started a psychology degree and is getting distinctions and credits in this, her first semester :) She contines to work with lifeline and loves her course. Anxiety and depression are still with her but between herself and her fabulous psychologist she has developed her resilience such that she knows better how to manage.......but I digress. I can tell you, for us, it was worth the paperwork required to apply for special consideration. Look where she is now?  Uni isn't for everyone and to be honest, year 12 was such a struggle, I made sure she knew that it was entirely up to her whether she completed it - it just didn't matter in the scheme of things, so don't think I'm a university advocate at all costs - sometimes the costs are too high. A few years on she is more mature, more resilient and ready to take on this challenge. Keeping options open can't be a bad thing, right?   http://www.uac.edu.au/eas/ ... View more