What have you been up to since leaving SKC?

I headed off to Otago University after graduating from SKC and got a BA Hons in Classics and French. I have to credit Mr Mawson for introducing me to Classics when I was at SKC - I instantly fell in love with the subject, because you get to learn a bit of everything! History, Philosophy, Art, Religion, Warfare, Theatre, Politics and Language. The foundations of human civilisation! Once I graduated from University I followed my passion for the Arts and put my communications skills to work - I moved to Tamaki Makaurau and have been working in Fundraising and Events for some of the largest Arts organisations in the country.

What is your most fond memory of your time at St Kevin's?

I have many - the group of us piggybacking each other through the cross-country, playing in the band for some wonderful musical productions. But I think my favourite would be a project we did for our Yr 13 Classics class on the League of Corinth where we made a video presentation involving a lot of costumes, elaborate skits, filming all over the school, and we even made a working model chariot out of a chair trolley. It was the best fun.

What made you choose your profession?

Through my education, I built up a solid skill set in communication and research that would apply to many fields. Then I just followed my interests and did what I loved, getting involved in things like volunteering for festivals or stage shows whenever I could, working all sorts of odd jobs in the Arts industry until eventually, an opportunity opened up that fit both my skills and interests well. I have just been building from there.

How has the profession changed over the years?

I don't know if it has changed all that much over the years! Perhaps there is more of a focus on securing long-term stability for both staff and contractors, and the pay might have improved a bit - although it is not a high-paying industry, its foundations still lie in passion, dedication and community.

Any information you are happy to share about your family, hobbies, interests etc

Outside of work, I try to make the most of living in Auckland where there is always a new band or show or restaurant to go to, and I get to be close to my family. I do try to get out of the city on occasion, I love horse riding and I travel all over Te Tai Tokerau and get to ride in some awesome country. When I'm not doing any of that I'm usually playing video games.

What do you think are some of the challenges for young people today and how is it different from your time at school?

There are very few clear paths to take in life, and the more the world grows and changes, the more options are in front of you. There is also a lot more pressure just from the stream of information that is constantly being pushed on young people - what your friends are doing, what your peers are doing, what you should be doing or avoiding or aiming for. I don't know how I would deal with it if I had to do it all again now! All I can say is that your path is never set, and often the best way to find out if something is right for you is to get stuck in and try it - but don't be afraid to change direction if it isn't for you! Everything you learn will shape you, and eventually, you will find a good fit.

Any funny stories from SKC that you would like to share?

I remember we all got dressed up for Sports Day one year, including a lot of very patriotic face paint in various House colours, and it was a scorching day. When we went to wash off the paint at the end of the day, the patterns had been sunburnt onto our skin. There were a lot of very stripey faces and a few very distinct handprints on arms and legs that lasted for weeks afterwards. Lesson learned - always wear sunscreen!!

Article added: Thursday 23 November 2023