8 minute read
Student Voice
The Voice of Alice O’Driscoll
What has it been like being a student at St Margaret’s?
I have been a student at St Margaret’s for twelve years and I have been taught so much. Through this school I have made connections with my peer group and found a wonderful group of friends. Academically, I have developed a love for science and innovation which I am certain will greatly influence my career path in the future. Furthermore, I have received help when needed to balance my academic pursuits with my sporting commitments, both of which are integral parts of my life. I have been challenged and supported at St Margaret’s and have loved my time here.
What is the best thing about the school and why do you think that?
I love the spirit shown from St Margaret’s girls throughout the entire school. It is seen across all areas of school life and helps build the supportive community we have at this school.
When you were first announced as a school captain, what were your first thoughts/emotions?
I was excited and completely overwhelmed; it was a very surreal moment. Issy and I have been friends since Year 5 when she first came to the school and I was thrilled to be able to share this entire experience with her. While thus far 2020 has not been exactly what we envisioned, I remain enthusiastic to lead this school, with Issy, through these unprecedented times and look forward to returning to our campus.
What advice would you give other students to make certain they make the most of the opportunities?
We are very privileged to go to school like St Margaret’s and are presented with such a large range of opportunities. While a rather cliché sentiment, I truly believe in the idea of giving things a go and branching out. Through my time at St Margaret’s, I have had opportunities offered to me which have taken me out of my comfort zone. For example, I was very apprehensive about appearing on ABC radio to discuss cyberbullying as part of the Myriad High Project, but I consider the interview one of my school highlights and was pleased to be able to represent the school in such an important conversation.
Is there any other general advice you would give to students?
One of the best pieces of advice I have been given is if you are feeling stressed ask yourself can you do something about it? If the answer is yes, then do something, and if the answer is no, then stress will not help change the result, so we must focus on acceptance. While a relatively simple concept, it can be difficult to apply. In an academic setting it can be particularly motivating; for example, the best way to calm anxiety about an upcoming assignment or an exam is to focus on actually finishing that assignment or study for that exam rather than focusing on the stress it can cause.
What kind of classroom environment suits you best?
I really appreciate variation within the classroom environment. I enjoy a mix of individual study and peer collaboration. I also find that different subjects tend to tackle learning in different ways and that not every curriculum should be presented in the same format.
Have you had a learning experience outside of the classroom that has had an impact on you and why was it so important?
The first experience that comes to mind is SONY Camp, where students provide respite care over a weekend for children with special needs. Having been at this school for quite a while, I had heard stories from many past Year 11 students about the impact of the camp. Being able to participate in this camp was an incredible experience. Over the camp I was so fortunate to learn many things about myself and gain a greater understanding of the way we can help others.
What excites you about the future?
Right at this minute, I am excited for the time when social gatherings are once again allowed and other restrictions are lifted. I am looking forward to this time as I have developed a new appreciation for many things which I previously took for granted. In a more long-term sense, I am excited to be able to enter university to continue my education and join with my peers to take our learnings into the real world and contribute in positive ways in our communities.
If you wanted to say one thing to your teachers what would it be?
Thank you. I appreciate all the work teachers do to help assist us in making the most out of our education. Clearly teaching academics is a major component that I am thankful for, but I am also grateful for all the effort that is put into facilitating extra-curricular activities and other events which have enhanced my school experience. Our St Margaret teachers always go the extra mile, checking in on us if we’re looking stressed, encouraging us to extend ourselves, inviting us to try new and different activities – thank you for helping us become inquisitive, well-rounded, confident young women.
What is one thing about St Margaret’s we should never change?
One of the great advantages of St Margaret’s is it is relatively small. The smaller class sizes allow students to develop stronger relationships with teachers and results in a better learning experience. SUNATA 57
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The Voice of Isobel Barry
What has it been like being a student at St Margaret’s?
Being a student at St Margaret’s has helped me grow into the young woman that I am today. The value-based learning and numerous opportunities have helped me to develop in a pastoral and scholastic sense, in particular, by learning in the framework of the core values of St Margaret’s and the St Margaret’s Way. Opportunities such as SONY Camp and global exchange have broadened my horizons and given me a new perspective on issues both close to and far away from home. In this way, St Margaret’s has shaped me into a futurethinking global citizen.
What is the best thing about the school and why do you think that?
St Margaret’s is a community that really promotes the empowerment and growth of strong young women. I love being part of a community that puts girls first, giving them opportunities and inspiration to excel.
When you were first announced as a school captain, what were your first thoughts/emotions?
My first thought was the excitement that I was going to be sharing the role with one of my best friends; I couldn’t believe we were so lucky to be captains together. I was so proud to be standing on that stage surrounded by intelligent, strong young women and in front of such a supportive school community who I would be leading the next year.
What advice would you give other students to make certain they make the most of the opportunities?
I would say that comparison is the thief of joy. I think that it’s very easy to dismiss opportunities due to self-doubt or fear of not being good enough. However, any opportunity that you do take is going to further your development, no matter what experience you have. Rather than seeing opportunities as a chance to fail or succeed, shift your mindset to see them as a chance to grow.
Is there any other general advice you would give to students?
Other than making sure you check your exam timetable (I’m not kidding, I laughed when I first heard it, but I definitely wasn’t laughing later), I would say learn how to self-reflect. The word ‘reflection’ is often met with groans; however, it is a powerful tool to develop, particularly in an academic context. By reflecting on prior mistakes or successes, you are more likely to not make that mistake again or continue to do what you are already doing well.
What kind of classroom environment suits you best?
A discussion-based classroom environment suits me best because I find that in an open discussion forum I am able to learn with and from my peers. It is also a great way to check understanding. I also love to bring up points of contention and discuss them with the class; it’s interesting to hear a variety of perspectives.
Have you had a learning experience outside of the classroom that has had an impact on you and why was it so important?
I have had a lot of learning experiences outside of the classroom; however, one that particularly strikes me is my experience on exchange. Academically, the school I attended had a different program to St Margaret’s; however, the most important learning experiences came outside of the school day. I learnt to be independent in my learning, resilient in the face of challenge and passionate about travel and global citizenship.
What excites you about the future?
I’m excited to be a part of a generation that is going to change the world. I believe that young people today are such forward thinkers and have an opportunity to innovate in social and political spheres, particularly in areas such as gender equality, the environment, LGBTQ+ issues and closing the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.
If you wanted to say one thing to your teachers what would it be?
I would say thank you for connecting me to my learning. Without all the amazing teachers I have been exposed to throughout my time at St Margaret’s, I would not have such a passion for my subjects and a love for coming to school.
What is one thing about St Margaret’s we should never change?
St Margaret’s should never change their passion for the education of the whole child. I’m so grateful that my education at St Margaret’s has taken me to amazing places and taught me for life beyond the classroom.
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