What did you do directly after school? Studies, travel, living etc

After graduating from St Andrews in 2013 I worked casually for 18 months whilst figuring out what I wanted to do next. I then began studying at the University of the Sunshine Coast mid-year 2015.

What did you study at University and graduation news etc

I studied a Bachelor of Primary Education at USC and graduated mid-year 2019.

What are you doing since graduation?

After graduating from university, I moved to Thursday Island in the Torres Strait to begin my teaching career at Tagai State College. I taught Year 2/3 for the first 6 months, and have since been teaching Year 1. My partner and I are making the most of living in a beautiful part of our country by going on lots of camping, boating and fishing adventures.

What were your interests during school… sport, music etc and are you still involved?

At school I played both Basketball and Netball for the college. I was a very keen basketball player back then and still continue to play now. I play for a local team in their women’s competition here on TI.

What are your long-term goals now that you have graduated?

Working and living on TI is such a wonderful experience, so I’d say I will be here for some time to come. I am unsure where we will be next, it's all a big adventure!

What challenges you faced post-school, and even post-uni?

I’d say the biggest challenge after school would be figuring out what I wanted to do next. There’s lots of pressure to go to university straight away and to have everything figured out. I’m glad I took time after school, because now I absolutely love teaching and working with gorgeous kids every day. Post-uni, the biggest challenge was definitely moving to a remote community… Which is 2 flights and a ferry ride to get back to the Sunshine Coast! In the beginning it was definitely a challenge living on Thursday Island with no family and initially no friends. But the community here is lovely and after a short time it felt like home. Teaching here also has its challenges, but it's such a rewarding job at the end of the day.

What are your highlights from school, teachers, programs etc?

I think the biggest highlight from school was definitely the teachers and community feel. It really is like one big family, especially in Year 11 and 12. I have lots of good memories with the sport teachers; Robbo, Mrs Powell and Mr Piper. And even Mr Sjogren when he was my basketball coach. I also can't forget Mr Linthorne as Head of Hocknull house - sports days were definitely a highlight. Another teacher who I won't forget is Mrs Sugden who taught our Cert classes, there were always lots of laughs.

Do you stay in touch with friends from school?

I stay in touch with a few close friends from school. My best friend at school, Claire, is still my best friend till this day!