Class of 2019 – Henrietta Paterson
After receiving a conditional early offer to study a Bachelor of Paramedicine at the Australian Catholic University through the university’s Community Achievers Program, Henrietta Paterson is already on the path to pursuing her dream of becoming a paramedic.
“I hope to one day work as a paramedic for Ambulance Victoria in the summer and a ski patroller in the winter,” explains Henrietta.
Commencing her journey at St Catherine’s in Prep, Henrietta has several fond memories of her time at the School.
“I loved sitting on the Red Steps during the Junior School Assemblies. And getting my own locker and being in charge of myself in the Senior School was an amazing feeling of independence. But the greatest highlight of the past 13 years was the day that we got to wear our blue jumpers for the first time as Year 12 students.”
Over the years, Henrietta has made a tremendous contribution to the School’s Rowing Program, which saw her receive the Rower of the Year Award and a Light Blue Award for Performance in Rowing. She was also a member of the St Catherine’s First XIII that competed at the Australian Rowing Championships.
“I have learnt a lot about myself throughout my time at St Catherine’s. I have learnt what it means to be a good friend and the power of a resilient mindset. I think that St Catherine’s sets girls up with a toolbox and it is how we choose to use it that will determine our own successes,” she says.
“In my opinion, the teachers at St Catherine’s are very realistic about the world, they tell it straight and I would not have it any other way. Being told how to do well in something and then being able to reach that goal is impossible to do without the help of amazing teachers and the supportive community around us, especially Mrs Braddy our Dean.”
Henrietta encourages the Class of 2020 to “Lean in and do the work. Teachers are always there with a smile when you are confused. Trust the system, the year will end and the result will be the result. But most of all enjoy the year, it is a really fun year.”
