Class of 2021 – Tingquan (Gloria) Meng
Tingquan (Gloria) Meng commenced at St Catherine’s School in Year 7. Gloria’s positive and resilient attitude was reflected in her enthusiastic role as Captain of the Cultural Diversity Club this year and also a member of Viva Voci.
Within her Captaincy role, Gloria provided impressive leadership across the year, particularly during the Cultural Diversity Assembly, where she interviewed teachers and immersed students in interactive diversity quizzes.
As a self-motivated and independent learner, Gloria’s disciplined approach and determination to her studies stood her in good stead for achieving success at St Catherine’s School’s Speech Day Awards, where she received the following awards:
- Margaret Mulder Award for International Citizenship
- Melbourne University Principals’ Award
- Dark Blue Award for Academic Excellence
Gloria’s achievements across her six years at St Catherine’s, along with the goals she set out to achieve in Year 12, demonstrate her sensible and mature approach to critical thinking and problem solving. We wish her every success as she aims to pursue a Science degree at Melbourne University.
Gloria shares some of her reflections on life at St Catherine’s below.
Has completing your two years of VCE within the COVID-19 pandemic changed your perspective?
Over the past two years I have felt grateful and lucky to have my family, friends and St Catherine’s School to support me. Despite all the lockdowns they all made me feel connected with others despite being separated.
What do you plan to study post school?
I am planning to study Science at Melbourne University.
What do you see yourself doing in five years’ time?
Still studying at university, potentially a Master’s degree, solving tasks with my teammates and looking for jobs once I graduate.
What have been some of the highlights of your time at St Catherine’s?
One of my highlights was delivering my speech at the Cultural Diversity Assembly. It was my first time speaking in front of so many people as I am not a confident public speaker. I am very proud of myself for doing it anyway.
What are some life lessons you have learnt from your time at St Catherine’s, and particularly from 2020-21?
- Making sure you balance study and hard work with time to relax as well.
- Stay calm and positive during difficult situations.
- No matter what life brings to us, there are always pathways for us to go.
How do you believe St Catherine’s and your teachers have helped you reach your goals?
I really thank my teachers for not only teaching me the things I need to learn, but also giving me courage and confidence. It was the confidence that pushed me during Year 12 and keeps me working even when I am challenged.
What advice would you provide to future Year 12 students?
Year 12 is not as scary as it sounds. Keep your faith and work hard, and things will eventually work out one by one.
