Class of ’23: Lily Taylor
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: Lily Taylor
Class of 2023
What have been the highlights of your time at St Catherine’s?
I think most my highlights would come through my sporting achievements, the two most prominent ones would have to be winning the 100 and the 200 in my year 12 athletics finals night, and getting a PB in the 200 and my second one would be winning the year 12 medley relay at the swimming finals night, we have qualified in at 3rd or 4th and thus weren’t expecting to win, but as the freestyle swimmer I was last, and when, I hit that touchpad a rush of excitement came over as I had just realised what we had accomplished.
What co-curricular activities or clubs were you involved in? What did you learn from these?
Hockey, Athletics, Softball, Swimming, Soccer, Basketball. I learned how to play with individuals I’ve never played with. I learned to trust individuals who I didn’t know if they were good or not, I learned how to be a leader.
For most of my high school life I was injured and thus I was often out of sport for extended periods of time, so I had to learn how to be resilient and use what I had to the best of my ability. For example, when I was in Year 10 in my second season of Rowing, I suffered an extreme injury which prevented me from continuing to row, however, I took that opportunity to become a cox and truthfully, I think I loved it more than I did Rowing, so I guess the biggest lesson I learned was that things happen for a reason and while it might be frustrating and difficult initially, ultimately it will work out in the end, and it will often be better than what you first hoped for.
What were your favourite subjects?
Health and Human Development.
Can you describe a significant academic achievement or project you’re proud of?
General Academic Award in Year 9.
How do you handle challenges or setbacks in your academic pursuits?
As someone with dyslexia I’ve faced numerous setbacks, however, by constantly working hard and utilising my teachers and other resources, I was able to overcome this major struggle of dyslexia.
What do you plan to study post School?
I hope to study Commerce or Agriculture at Melbourne University and then begin a job in the food business industry.
How do you believe St Catherine’s and your teachers have helped you reach your goals?
The teachers at St Catherine’s are so generous with their time and will offer support when needed. I think without their constant support I wouldn’t have been able to achieve what I have.
What skills or knowledge have you gained during your education that you believe will be valuable in your future career?
I think knowing how to work with others. I learned that especially this year as I was placed into a Health class where I didn’t have any of my closet friends, however I became better friends with the girls in my class and can honestly say that it was my favourite class, not just because of the content that we learned but because of the girls and our teacher, Mrs Morgan, who were in the class. Often some of the best things are the most unexpected.
What advice would you provide to future Year 12 students?
Take advantage of the year, it is such a fun year, and you’ll make so many memories.
