The teenager had her examination monologue from Margaret Atwood’s ‘The Penelopiad’ nominated for higher honours by external examiners. The NSW Board of Studies has received a video of her performance and Maria is one of about 50 students across the state who are in the running to perform at Sydney’s Seymour Centre next year.

The modest year 12 student is the only person in the Monaro to be nominated for the honour and said her teacher Mr Ian Greig deserved praise for getting her this far.

“Students are only a reflection of their teachers. He’s inspirational and is appreciated by all of his students,” she said.

Maria who only took up acting two years ago said she is “stoked” and never expected to be chosen. She said drama is a creative way of expressing herself.

“You see something and are drawn to the piece. It is a challenge to understand a character, their way of thinking and to pull it off,” she said.

While Mr Greig said Maria’s hard work ethic put her in good stead.

“She is an outstanding and wonderful student who is insightful, creative, intelligent and a critical thinker,” he said.

However, Mr Greig wanted to highlight that Maria’s achievement is a reflection on the commitment of all his students.

“These kids have wanted to do well and there were several outstanding examination performances,” he said.

If selected, Maria will be one of eight students to perform her monologue in Sydney next year. She is expected to find out in November.