PAES 2024 Interviews

Luciano shines with his National Score in PAES 2024 (1,000 pts. M1)

Luciano shines with his National Score in PAES 2024 (1,000 pts. M1)

Colegio Pedro de Valdivia Peñalolén proudly celebrates Luciano, a Year 12 student who achieved a National Score in the recent Higher Education Access Examination (PAES). With an impressive score of 1,000 points in Mathematics M1, this outstanding accomplishment reflects not only his academic dedication, but also his ability to balance study with his personal passions.

The discipline behind success

Luciano describes his study routine as intense but effective. “I had pre-university classes practically every day of the week: Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. In my free time, maths practice, past papers at home and a focus on strengthening my weaker areas were all part of my preparation,” he explains. However, the real challenge, in his view, was balancing his studies with his hobbies. “This final year was also a chance to play instruments and take part in live performances at school. Although it was difficult, that balance can be achieved.”

The support of CPV: a strong foundation

A fundamental role in Luciano’s preparation was played by the school. “The pre-university programme offered by the school was a great help, especially in Language and Mathematics. At the beginning of the year, I had 500 points in Language and, thanks to the programme, I reached 700 points,” he explains. Special mention was also given to the elective in limits, derivatives and integrals that he took in Year 11. “Mrs Carola Saavedra helped me improve my speed and accuracy in Mathematics, which was crucial in avoiding common mistakes and building confidence.”

Dreams and advice for future students

With a clear goal in mind, Luciano is preparing to study Engineering at the Pontifical Catholic University, while continuing to pursue his passion for music. “My hope is to continue with music and not leave aside what I love,” he says.

To students currently in Year 11, his message is a valuable one: “Enjoy your final year. Although the pressure of the exam can feel overwhelming, if you study from the beginning and manage your time well, you can do it. The present moment should also be lived fully — do what you enjoy and look after your emotional wellbeing. This year can be one of the most special of your lives.”

Luciano stands as an inspiring example that effort and balance are key to achieving great goals. From Colegio CPV Peñalolén, our warmest congratulations are extended to him, together with every success in this exciting new stage.

Gonzalo, a CPV student who achieved a National Score in PAES 2024 (1,000 pts. M1)

Colegio Pedro de Valdivia Peñalolén celebrates with joy and pride the achievement of Gonzalo, a Year 12 student who attained a National Score in the 2024 Higher Education Access Examination (PAES). His dedication, perseverance and balance between academic and personal responsibilities make him a role model for his peers.

A journey of effort and discipline

For Gonzalo, the months leading up to the examination were essential. “During the last two months, around six hours a day were devoted to study, although before that, two hours a day were enough. The most difficult part was combining school, maintaining my grades, sports, extracurricular activities and studying for PAES,” he explains. Challenging though it was, that balance proved fundamental in reaching his goal.

The role of the school in his success

Recognition is given by Gonzalo to the support he received from CPV throughout his school journey. “From an early age, excellent teachers and a very strong teaching approach were part of my experience. In the later stages, the school provided specialised workshops and flexibility around mock examinations, which made a great difference,” he says. In addition, the mock examinations offered by the school were a crucial tool in approaching the test with confidence.

A promising future

A clear next step has already been set by Gonzalo: to study Engineering at the Pontifical Catholic University. “My hope is to begin with the same level of effort that I gave to PAES, together with the unconditional support of my parents, who have always been fundamental in this process,” he says.

A message for future generations

For students who will soon face this stage, Gonzalo offers valuable advice: “Prepare well. The exam is not difficult, but it is designed for mistakes to be made. The focus should be on avoiding those mistakes rather than knowing absolutely everything. Appreciation should also be shown for the support of your families, and the teaching offered by the school should be fully embraced.”

From Colegio Pedro de Valdivia Peñalolén, Gonzalo is warmly congratulated for his remarkable perseverance and academic success, and every success is wished for this new chapter of his life.

Gabriel, the CPV student who made history with a double National Score in PAES 2024 (1,000 pts. M1 and M2)

A spirit of celebration fills Colegio Pedro de Valdivia Peñalolén as we recognise the extraordinary achievement of Gabriel, a Year 12 student who obtained a double National Score in the M1 and M2 papers of the 2024 Higher Education Access Examination (PAES). This accomplishment reflects both his dedication and his ability to overcome challenges with determination.

An effective and consistent approach

Gabriel shared how he organised his studies. “Around two hours a day were devoted to study from August onwards, although I think it could have been more, just to be certain,” he says. However, the greatest challenge, in his view, was not academic. “The most important thing is not to become nervous. Knowing the content at home is easy, but in the exam it is different. Situations that make you nervous should be faced so that you learn how to manage them,” he advises his classmates.

CPV, a key source of support along the way

A fundamental contribution to Gabriel’s success came from the school environment. “The teachers are excellent, and the large, pleasant playground helped me relax. That atmosphere was crucial in managing stress,” he explains. The positive influence of his family and friends throughout the process is also warmly acknowledged.

Looking ahead

With his place at the Pontifical Catholic University already secured to study Engineering, Gabriel is excited about what lies ahead. “I want to see what comes next. I am grateful to my mum, my dad, my brother, my teachers and my special friend, ‘la sap’, who knows who she is,” he says with a smile.

A message for the next generation

For those soon to begin their final year of school, Gabriel offers sincere advice: “A great deal of study is needed. It can be done. The resources you have should be used well, and confidence in yourselves should never be lost.”

Gabriel’s example shows that, with discipline, support and a positive mindset, extraordinary goals can be achieved. From Colegio CPV Peñalolén, our congratulations go to Gabriel for this remarkable accomplishment, together with every success in the new stage ahead.

Adrián: Achieving a National Score in PAES 2024 (1,000 pts. M1)

Colegio Pedro de Valdivia Peñalolén is proud to celebrate Adrián, who achieved a National Score in the 2024 Higher Education Access Examination (PAES). This outstanding Year 12 student shares his experience, the challenges he faced and the key elements that led him to this notable success.

A journey of gradual learning

Adrián began his preparation for PAES during the second half of the year. “I started studying in July, but at first only one hour every two days was being dedicated to it. It was a gradual process: as the date came closer, that increased to around two or three hours a day,” he explains. However, the greatest challenge, he admits, was managing his nerves. “As the exam approached, I became more nervous because I did not know how I would do. Taking part in university mock exams helped a great deal, because afterwards PAES felt like just another mock exam,” Adrián explains.

The important contribution of CPV Peñalolén

A fundamental role in his preparation was played by the school, which provided him with both tools and support. “In the second half of the year, a pre-university programme with specific subject pathways was introduced. I chose Physics, and those classes, together with the exercise materials, helped me a great deal,” he explains. Adrián also highlighted the support of the Pedro de Valdivia pre-university programme offered by the school. “It was key to improving my scores and making the most of the opportunities available,” he says.

A future full of possibilities

With his results now secured, Adrián plans to study Engineering at the Pontifical Catholic University. “Scholarships and options are available to me, but my focus is on entering Engineering. All the possibilities are being considered, and I am confident that the right decision will be made,” he shares.

Advice and gratitude

Valuable advice is offered by Adrián to future generations: “Study with friends; it helped me a lot. Take part in mock exams and stay focused.” Gratitude is also expressed with warmth: “I want to thank my family for their constant support and my friends for being with me throughout this process. That support was essential.”

Adrián is a clear example of how effort, preparation and the right support can lead to extraordinary results. From Colegio CPV Peñalolén, our congratulations are extended to him, together with every success on the path ahead.

Tomás: Dedication and resilience behind his National Score in PAES 2024 (1,000 pts. M1)

Colegio Pedro de Valdivia Peñalolén celebrates the achievement of Tomás, a former student who attained an outstanding National Score in the 2024 Higher Education Access Examination (PAES). His experience reflects the effort, study strategies and support that helped him reach this important goal.

The challenge of organising for success

Tomás explains that his preparation included study sessions of between four and five hours a day, although that amount was sometimes exceeded. “The main challenge was organising myself and keeping to the timetable I had set. Sometimes unexpected plans came up, but time was always found to study for at least one or two hours. When I became bored, exercise helped me stay focused and improve my scores. In the end, it all comes down to practice,” he says with determination.

The role of CPV in his preparation

A fundamental pillar in his journey was the school. “The tools I needed were given to me, including support with organising my time and guidance from teachers. Even the school counsellor helped me define what I wanted to study, which was an enormous relief. In addition, the pre-university programme helped me develop a study habit that will stay with me for life,” Tomás says.

University plans and beyond

A dream of studying Civil Engineering at the Pontifical Catholic University is held by Tomás, although other options are also valued. “If I do not get in this year, I could take the exam again or join the College programme, which seems like a very good alternative. I have also applied to the University of Chile and I am close to being accepted, but my first choice remains the Catholic University. I feel calm and confident about what is to come,” he explains.

Reflections and gratitude

Along this journey, the unconditional support of his family is recognised by Tomás, especially their care for his emotional wellbeing, as well as the support of friends who stayed by his side during the most difficult moments. The positive influence of the school team is also highlighted. “I am especially grateful to the counsellor, who helped me change direction and discover what I truly wanted. That was key to my success,” he concludes.

Tomás is an example of how perseverance, planning and the support of a strong educational community can open the door to great opportunities. From Colegio CPV Peñalolén, our congratulations go to him for this important achievement, together with every success on the exciting path ahead.

Lucas: Dedication and focus in achieving his National Score in PAES 2024 (1,000 pts. M1)

Colegio Pedro de Valdivia Peñalolén proudly celebrates the achievement of Lucas, who obtained a National Score in the 2024 Higher Education Access Examination (PAES) in Mathematics 1 (M1). His experience reflects a disciplined study process, carefully chosen strategies and the fundamental support of his educational community.

The challenge of balancing study and rest

Lucas explains that his preparation was an ongoing process that began in March 2024. Throughout the year, time was devoted to study, particularly on Sundays, while space was also made for rest and time with friends. “The greatest challenge was knowing when it was the right time to go out and when I needed to study. The decision I made was to focus on the mock exams and on studying, but also to allow myself some opportunities to enjoy going out,” Lucas says, highlighting the importance of balance in his routine.

The support of CPV on his path to success

For Lucas, a key role in his preparation was played by the school. “My Mathematics teachers, both at school and privately, were fundamental in the process. Their support was always there, and guidance was given to me at every stage, which gave me a great deal of confidence. In addition, my friends always believed in me and helped me stay focused,” he explains, emphasising the positive influence of both his educational and social environment.

Future plans and personal goals

With his eyes on the future, Lucas is clear about his professional ambition: “I want to become a mining engineer and work abroad, whether with Norwegians, Australians or anywhere else in the world. My goal is to achieve stability and fulfil my personal dreams,” he says with determination.

Gratitude and reflection

Deep gratitude is expressed by Lucas to everyone who supported him on the path to this achievement. “I want to thank my Mathematics teachers, especially those who supported me from Year 5 to Year 12. Without their support, this would not have been possible. I also want to thank my friends for always believing in me,” he concludes, reflecting on how important the support of his family and close circle was throughout the journey.

Lucas’s achievement is a clear reflection of perseverance, focus and the unwavering support of his educational community. From Colegio Pedro de Valdivia Peñalolén, our congratulations go to Lucas for his outstanding performance in PAES 2024, together with every success in his future academic and professional journey.

Francisca: Dedication and commitment behind her National Score in PAES 2024 (1,000 pts. M1)

Colegio Pedro de Valdivia Peñalolén proudly celebrates the achievement of Francisca, who attained a National Score in the 2024 Higher Education Access Examination (PAES), standing out particularly in the sciences. Her experience offers valuable insight into her preparation, the challenges she faced and the fundamental support she received from both her family and the educational community.

The challenge of balancing study and personal life

Francisca began preparing for PAES in Year 11, devoting an average of four hours a day to study during the week and two hours at weekends. The main challenge she faced was balancing study time with recreational activities, particularly sport. “The greatest challenge was separating study time from time for leisure activities. Sport, for example, helped me switch off and stay focused,” she explains.

The key role of CPV in her preparation

A fundamental role in Francisca’s preparation was played by Colegio CPV. Particular emphasis is placed on the importance of the pre-university programme delivered by the school’s own teachers, which allowed her to strengthen key areas such as Chemistry and Biology. “The pre-university programme was a crucial tool, especially in Chemistry and Biology, subjects that were essential in improving my scores,” Francisca explains.

Academic goals and future plans

With her National Score now secured, Francisca is clear about her academic future: “I would like to study Medicine at the University of Chile. I have already applied, and my weighted score is exactly what I need for entry,” she says enthusiastically, reflecting the clarity of her professional goals.

Gratitude and reflection

Heartfelt gratitude is expressed by Francisca towards her family, who stood by her at every moment. “My family was my greatest support; they always encouraged me to keep going, even when I felt I could not continue,” she says. Appreciation is also extended to her teachers and to the school: “I am grateful to the school for all the support throughout this process, and especially to Headteacher Sergio Sánchez for his advice and support in the Language examinations. I would also like to thank Mrs Paz Cornejo, who helped me enormously in Chemistry, significantly improving my scores.”

Francisca’s achievement reflects the importance of perseverance, planning and the support of a strong educational community. From Colegio CPV Peñalolén, our congratulations are extended to Francisca for her outstanding performance in PAES 2024, together with every success in her journey towards a career in Medicine.