Interning with the Ex-Students

way to skin a cat'! This reminds me to be resourceful and find solutions to problems that seem insurmountable at the time.

If you could travel back in time, what would you say to your younger self? I think there are so many things that I would say to my younger self, most notably that to follow your passion is a gift to yourself and that in doing so, you will find freedom and great satisfaction. I would also remind my younger self that life is short. I would tell myself to make the years count;

...don't wait for things to happen to you, make them happen yourself.

How do you find balance in your life? I balance my life is by keeping fit and spending time with people who inspire, make me laugh and feel good.

How has your education at PLC Sydney shaped the person you are today? Having come from a small community in western NSW, my time at school was profound. It goes without saying the friendships formed there far exceed anything else. Nearly 34 years later, these friends are still some of the most precious ones in my life. I adore the humour shared with the old PLC girls. When I opened the Gallery nearly five years ago, many of my old PLC Sydney friends made the long trip to attend. Sometimes it can be a few years without seeing them, but we understand each other so well; it’s always like 'yesterday' when we catch up.

Please share some of your most vivid, favourite or amusing memories from school. Some of the things I'd like to mention may not be appreciated here, but my memories are so vivid!

As I have said, the humour and fun we had in the boarding house often fills my thoughts. We did some really silly things, all to have fun! As we got away with them, I think I will keep them under my hat for now!

A.K Bellinger Gallery is a contemporary Gallery situated in Inverell on the North West Slopes and Plains of NSW. Visit www.akbellingergallery.com or follow @akbellingergallery

INTERNING WITH THE EX-STUDENTS: YIFAN (JOEY) LIU (2018)

Yifan is currently completing a Bachelor of Media (PR & Advertising) at UNSW, after graduating from PLC Sydney in 2018. She has completed a professional placement with the Ex-Students’ Office, as part of her final semester course requirements.

In my first year of university, all I wanted was to take a break from high school: I partied, met new people, and enjoyed the freedom I lost in Year 12 as I was so dedicated to my studies. When I got my first job at a retail store during my second year, I realised the importance of gaining practical working experience - something I can never learn from a book. I reflected on the knowledge I gained in the first year during the lockdown and started planning for my future. I still remember the night before my internship began - I was nervous and excited. I never thought I would have the chance to work at PLC Sydney in the near future, and I thought it would be unusual to implement an online internship; however, it was not. I felt the warmth on the first day - I received welcome emails from my previous teachers, Miss Mella and Miss Young - I was so touched by their words. My tasks have included composing content for the Ex-Students’ Instagram account and Camphora Magazine, assisting to plan the International Student Mentoring program and Futures Events for Year 10 and 12. I want to especially thank my supervisor, Philippa, who has demonstrated to me what a PR working environment is like, patiently answering my every single ‘silly question’; inviting me to join in meetings and discussion to express my opinions to make me feel involved in the working environment. During the time I have spent with her, I have learnt a lot. Thanks PLC Sydney for providing this internship opportunity. Even though I am no longer at student at PLC Sydney, it still helps me to learn and grow.