Class of ’23: Emma Gregory
As their time as students enters the final chapter, a number of our Class of 2023 reflect on their Life at St Catherine’s.
Life at St Catherine’s: Emma Gregory
Class of 2023
What co-curricular activities or clubs were you involved in? What did you learn from these?
I was heavily involved within the Sports Program throughout my journey at St Catherine’s, especially in Swimming. I also enjoyed being a part of the Water Polo Team, Cross-Country, Triathlon, Rowing, and Diving. I swam both inside and outside of school, which provided a vital balance to my studies in Year 12.
I started flute in Year 3 and enjoyed being a part of a variety of musical groups, from the Junior School recorder ensemble to Years 7/8 Band and the chamber flute ensemble.
What were your favourite subjects?
Whilst I enjoyed all the subjects I took (English, Mathematical Methods, Specialist, French and Accounting), I have always had a particular affinity towards Mathematics. I was fortunate to have Mr Wang as a Maths Teacher for many years, whose humour, and depth of knowledge rendered Specialist Mathematics my favourite subject. Further, I found Specialist to be incredibly interesting in terms of its content and challenging in such a way as to be inherently rewarding.
Can you describe a significant academic achievement or project you’re proud of?
I was fortunate to be a part of the University of Melbourne’s Kwong Lee Dow Young Scholars Program in Years 11 and 12. This gave me the opportunity to meet a wide variety of like-minded students, and a chance to discover the Melbourne campus firsthand.
How do you handle challenges or setbacks in your academic pursuits?
A key component to overcoming academic setbacks is to understand and learn from the mistakes you have made. I would emphasise this most for the Year 11s, as this is an opportunity to learn, grow, and prepare for their final year.
What do you plan to study post School?
I hope to study either Mathematics and Economics overseas, or Actuarial Science through a Bachelor of Commerce at the University of Melbourne.
How do you believe St Catherine’s and your teachers have helped you reach your goals?
St Catherine’s has a strong academic culture and supportive structure which encourages students to pursue their goals. I had phenomenal teachers who were always willing to help, give feedback and explain concepts where need be.
What are your short-term and long-term career goals after graduating from school?
It is hard to tell at this point in time. After university, I am looking to enter banking and finance, economic analysis, or research. I hope to work in a sector that combines my passion for mathematics and economics.
How do you envision using your education to make a positive impact on your community or society at large?
I hope to volunteer as a tutor. I also hope to study mathematics and economics at university with the prospect to utilise my economic background to contribute to the animal rights movement and economics insights/solutions towards social inequalities.
What advice would you provide to future Year 12 students?
Focus on understanding rather than memorisation. A detailed understanding of your subjects will enable you to adapt to any question and will be a far more efficient use of your time. Maintain your co-curricular activities and hobbies.
