Life at St Catherine’s: Scarlett Song
Class of 2023

What have been the highlights of your time at St Catherine’s?  

I think the highlights of my time at St Catherine’s range from the wonderful friends I’ve made to the overwhelming support from teachers and the fulfilling learning environment. I have made countless memories and tried many new things, from new subjects to different co-curricular activities.  

It has catalysed my growth and development and allowed me to discover my real interests and hobbies. The Year 12 trip to Ormond College was a particularly fun experience in helping join our whole Year level together, building our teamwork, and deepening our understanding of each other!   

What co-curricular activities or clubs were you involved in? What did you learn from these?  

I was involved in GSV Sports like Badminton and Cultural Diversity Club. These made me learn a lot, giving me a good break from studies to learn and grow in a different aspect. More importantly, it was great fun to get to know and make friends with students from other Year levels!   

What were your favourite subjects?  

My favourite subjects have always been Mathematics and English – slightly contradictory, I know. Mathematics has always been one of my passions since I was a child, participating in Math Competitions and weekly kahoots were always a highlight in my daily school life (although kahoots still are!). English has also been a great subject as I have endeavoured to find my own unique expression and language that has defined my writing, allowing me to utilise my creativity in an effective way!   

Can you describe a significant academic achievement or project you’re proud of?  

I think a significant academic achievement I’m proud of is both my studies of Chinese Units 3&4 last year, and of my previous participation in Math Competitions, in which I have achieved High Distinctions. These experiences have all shaped my academic life for the better!   

How do you handle challenges or setbacks in your academic pursuits?  

I think that challenges or setbacks are very normal, in fact, almost positive and beneficial in the long run. Although, in the moment, it may seem like the whole world is falling apart and it’s 11:59 PM with one minute left to submit an essay, it is how we learn and grow from these experiences that we become more resilient and develop better studying habits (that don’t include procrastination)!   

  

What do you plan to study post School? 
I plan to study Commerce at Melbourne University post School, as I have always enjoyed Mathematics and Accounting subjects, which is why I would like to endeavour to explore these areas in more depth in my future school career.   

Where do you hope to study?  

I hope to study at Melbourne University, as I have always loved it. Rather than going overseas or interstate, I feel that I am most comfortable here and would love to build on my knowledge in a reputable, local-based uni with friends and family’s support.   

How do you believe St Catherine’s and your teachers have helped you reach your goals?  

St Catherine’s and my teachers have helped me reach my goals by always showing support for me, no matter whether it was in academic or just general school life. The care and help from teachers have truly made me become more invested and resilient in my studies.    

What are your short-term and long-term career goals after graduating from school?  

My short-term career goals are to study Commerce at university and endeavour to find my interests in trying different majors within the course. My long-term career goals are still in question as of now, but I hope that I will be able to do something that I love and make the most out of all incoming opportunities!   

What skills or knowledge have you gained during your education that you believe will be valuable in your future career?  

I have learned many skills in my education here, from building teamwork and learning how to maintain a good study and rest-life balance. These have all been worthwhile experiences that I will be sure to use in my future career.   

How do you envision using your education to make a positive impact on your community or society at large?  

I feel that I want to use my education to make a positive impact on my community by helping and assisting them in different aspects, from my study-based commerce activities like helping as a financial supervisor to helping my community as a whole. I hope that I will be able to make a difference!   

In 2023, the Year 12 theme was ‘Conquer.’ What does this mean to you? 
I feel like ‘Conquer’ means exactly what it says, to conquer our studies, conquer our Year 12 life, and conquer all that is coming for us in the future. This innately headstrong and iron-willed mentality is what will make our resilience unmovable for the years to come.    

What advice would you provide to future Year 12 students?  

I say, make the most out of all the opportunities that come to you, life is short and Year 12 will pass in a blink of an eye. From celebrating the last first day of School to the last day of School, I hope that you never forget to stop for a moment, appreciate those around you, and soak in everything.