2019

Alex Wilson is a current Year 10 student at St Mary's College. She is an organised student who loves learning and has a passion for education. Alex is a determined girl who strives to succeed in any challenges she takes on board.

Alex has experienced many great times so far during her time at St Mary's College, such as re-enacting the class' favourite memories for their teacher. Another strong memory she holds was in 2018, when she won two Easter Raffles. This was a special memory that she will cherish forever.

St Mary's College has helped shape who Alex is today; a strong, happy and determined young lady who tries her best under any circumstances. St Mary's College has helped Alex become a more confident, energetic and motivated student. Alex has enjoyed all her years at this amazing school and cannot wait to see what the future brings for her.

Written by Katija Zujic (student)

Michael Kirkbride, a nurse, embarks on the Year 11 Oak Valley trip ever year with Mr Napoli, his high school friend. Michael's strongest memory is coming home after the trip where he feels many different emotions; always feeling privileged to be a part of the journey. Sharing his experiences with the college and Oak Valley community enhanced his love for the journey.

The first day is the most exciting as he gets to know everybody's stories. Michael hopes it is enjoyable for the students as they learn about Indigenous culture. His advice is step out of your comfort zone and experience something different. A special memory was sharing the trip with his wife Rachael and daughter Alice in 2017. He believes this trip empowers students, allowing them to open their hearts and minds to Indigenous culture. Michael has treasured the time spent with St Mary's and hopes to continue.

Written by Emily Giglio and Josie Douglass (students)

St Mary's College has helped Amy make lots of friendships and although she is in Year 12, she thinks that she will stay friends with everyone that she has connected with. Amy loves being a part of the band and coming third in a competition after four years of practice.

The College has given Amy skills for different situations. Amy would advise the students at St Mary's now, to be yourself, be positive and to not be afraid to try new things. A passion that she followed is being a part of the band in the Music Program. Amy treasures the friends she made and the craziest thing she ever did was sleep at the school for Music Camp.

The school has been a good influence on Amy because it has prepared her, and she feels confident for when she has to leave school at the end of the year.

Written by Emma Mundy (student)

Andrea Aoukar, an ex-scholar of St Mary's College completed her schooling in 1995 to 2001. Andrea's connection with the college continues today. Andrea's most favourable times at St Mary's were the camps each year and the retreats in Senior School. Through these experiences Andrea formed positive relationships and built positive friendships with her peers. Andrea states that her life-long friendships have taught her valuable lessons in life. That is honesty and truth.

Andrea continues to hold these friendships close to her heart. Andrea has always been a passionate and curious person. She embraces possibilities and feels that this has led her to achieve many goals. Today Andrea is a Year 5 teacher at the college. Andrea feels a strong sense of support from the school, past teachers, classroom peers and family members. From this support Andrea has gained a strong sense of confidence and continues to be a passionate individual.

Written by Dakota Stanford (student)

Bronte Menz, who is currently in Year 9, has enjoyed the past two years at St Mary's and has learned many valuable lessons in life. The values of Justice that Bronte has been taught in school are an important part of who she is and who she wants to be.

Being able to choose her subjects is important because they will help her when she goes to university and work. Drama and Design have become a passion for Bronte, and she hopes to use them in other aspects of her life, and she wonders how to make them into a career. Bronte has had an amazing experience at St Mary's College and cannot wait for her Senior Year. St Mary's has helped shape Bronte into who she is today because of the great teachers who have taught her, her dedication towards education and all of her friends along the way.

Written by Ava Boffa (student)

Audrey Fletcher is currently a successful Year 10 student at St Mary's College. She says that St Mary's College is helping her decide what she's interested in and is helping her choose the job that she wishes to succeed in in the future.

Audrey's most beloved and memorable moment at St Mary's College, was Year 9 Camp, she says it was such a fun experience that she will always remember. Audrey was most surprised when she won the award for Age Champion on Sports Day, a happy bubbly feeling lit up inside her as she did not think that would ever be a possibility.

Audrey is extremely happy with how St Mary's College is teaching her about future opportunities that she is interested in. "St Mary's College is shaping me into the person that I want to be and is always reminding me to study hard and to never give up."

Written by Siena Mazel-Vurlow (student)

Cameron Golding, a student of St Mary's College started her education in 2017. Cameron has always been involved in school sporting events and has always focused on study. For Cameron, friendships and lifetime bonds are significant. Cameron has maintained primary school friendships and built new positive relationships at the college.

Cameron has always been involved in school sporting events and has found a way to balance her love for learning and sporting commitments. In Year 9 she went to the Netball Academy in the Gold Coast and came runner up in the grand final. Later that year Cameron got into the 15 and unders South Australian team. Cameron states that St Mary's has helped her get into elite sporting teams through their specialist Netball programs and dedicated coaches. Cameron hopes that all students take on new opportunities and that they are confident in what they do and who they are.

Written by Madison Golding (sister and student)

Ella David is a current Year 10 student and at St Mary's since Reception 2009. During her time Ella David has made many memories, including friendships, participation at the End of year Eucharistic Celebration and more. She enjoyed the community gatherings that St Mary's has held because she appreciated seeing the whole school come together. She always believed that St Mary's is a community orientated school, and she has always enjoyed participating in Sports Days, Swimming Carnivals, Social Justice Days, and other community gatherings that the whole school has been involved in. She has always loved to get involved with the school community.

Ella David says that during her time at St Mary's she has become a better person. The advice she would share with students at St Mary's is to get involved with the school community and to try new things, even though you may not be good at it.

Written by Maja Szmeja (student)

Charlene Dinh is grateful for the opportunities she has since starting at St Mary's College in 2017. She was anxious when she started, as she did not know anyone, but she soon realised there was nothing to be worried about. Charlene developed a love for multi-media and editing. She remembers a time where her friends and herself were playing Minecraft in class and the teacher didn't notice. Charlene learned to be grateful and to not think that a small thing is the end of the world. She once had a class project and her friend accidently broke a chair during the process of making the video.

Charlene received a Service Award and was proud to be acknowledged. She is now passionate to help others and is grateful for the opportunities she has received. Her advice for students is to go for opportunities because you don't know unless you try.

Written by Lucinda Wickens (student)

Chloe Sharman is a Year 12 student who has been here since Year 8. She has learnt many life lessons, to respect one another and to remember equality. She has a strong memory from Year 12 Retreat as she feels that the whole Year level connected and grew and was surprised by how superb it was. Chloe explained that all the life lessons she learnt have been applied to her world outside of SMC, and in the process has developed a passion for helping other people by supporting other students with their work or any problems they may have even if they just need someone to talk to, Chloe is always there to listen.

Chole mentioned that she is proud of the young lady she is today, and she thinks that the teachers have helped with that. Chloe stated that SMC has shaped her to be more mindful and respectful.

Written by Sofia Maur (student)

Emily Dennis began her journey at St Marys College in year 1 and has since then developed a love for Music. Passionate about saxophone and clarinet, Emily feels as though St Mary's College has allowed her to explore and develop her musical talent. Emily remembers her first lesson and the feelings of nerves accompanying her. However, throughout years of music, Emily feels confident in performing at both large and more intimate settings. Emily thanks the school's opportunities and the consistent support of her music teacher since her first music lesson in Year 1.

Connections mean a lot for Emily. Her close relationships with friends and staff have given Emily the support she needs. She feels as though she has had a chance to meet new people and try new things. Emily hopes all students try their hardest and to love what they do, because that will make you successful.

Written by Zahli Rypstra (student)

Dan-Vy Nguyen or Vy to her friends, started in Year 8 at St Mary's College and is now a current Year 10 student. In 2018 Vy attended the Year 9 camp to the Grampians. She was over-joyed that she was able to do so many different activities that she hadn't done before.

Vy developed her passion for music and has participated in many musical events. Her most nerve-racking event was leading up to Generations in Jazz. But by the end was ecstatic with the results. Vy says involvement with extracurricular activities is important as you will meet new people and develop stronger relationships, not just with girls in your grade but in other year levels as well. During her time at St Mary's College, Vy has had many amazing memories and will still have many more to come. She will always look back on her time with appreciation and affection.

Written by Abbey Lockley (student)

Mrs McCarthy-Oliver is currently Coordinator of Drama and started working at the college  in 1999. She has also been the Arts Design Technology Coordinator. School productions, she said, are the most fulfilling, exciting and teambuilding experiences to be involved with. Although stressful they are all full of emotions. Every day she learns more and more about theatre, drama and education which she also pursues outside of school. Through productions she has learnt a lot about supporting each other as a community and being true.

Mrs McCarthy-Oliver has seen some major changes in the subject area she works in. She said we did not have Senior School Drama or the Centre for the performing Arts when she started. All the productions have been the highlights in her life along with building relationships and seeing students succeed. St Mary's is a very dear place to her with all the highs and lows she has  gone through in life.

Written by Isis Estella Golotta (student)

Kevin has been working at St Marys College for 25 years as an Education Support Officer (ESO) in the Maintenance Department. In his working career, Kevin has worked in three jobs, ten of these years as a house husband. Kevin was a parent first at the College. His daughters, Carol and Kelly started in 1992. He was heavily involved with his daughter's sporting events and has continued to work with the swimming teams. Kevin has performed various roles in his work and in his early days, he remembers being the Traffic Monitor at the Franklin Street crossing.

Kevin has loved helping with the Japanese exchange students, driving  music students involved in Generations of Jazz to Mount Gambier. Kevin said about his role, "You have to do what you have to do to help the students". Some advice that Kevin has, "Enjoy yourself, do the best with your subject choices".

Written by Matilda Plunkett (student)

Isabella Portaro is a current student at SMC. She has been at SMC for three years and has two more years left. In Year 8 she was quite shy and a bit timid, so she didn't really talk to many people. However, in Year 9 she talked a lot more and made many more friends.Year 9 Camp was Bella's strongest memory because she made many friends and had a great learning experience. Bella learnt she had to be organised and not to leave anything until the last minute.
 
Bella's advice for younger students at SMC is always be yourself and if you are asked to do anything, just do it! She is proud she is a SMC girl and proud she's a strong, independent woman. SMC has shaped her today as she has become a better person and now is herself. She is proud she is a SMC student.

Written by Ruby Williams (student)

Isha Saini has attended four different schools including St Mary's College and feels that the college has allowed her to grow into a confident woman. Starting in 2017 in Year 10, Isha will graduate in 2019. Throughout Isha's time at St Mary's she has formed strong connections and built positive friendships. Isha cherishes these and feels that it is through her connections that make her the person she is today.

Isha has loved attending the annual school's camps and feels that camps are a chance to place you outside of your comfort zone and an opportunity to make new friends from other classes. St Mary's has allowed Isha to follow her passion and supported her throughout her education. Isha has developed a balance between social life and schooling and feels confident in seeking help from teachers. Isha hopes that all students take the opportunity to be involved in school activities.

Written by Ash Saini (sister and student)

Since 1991, Karen Vonderwall has had the opportunity to teach at St Mary's College. She began her teaching role and Sports Coordinator until 2004. During her time as Sports Coordinator, she formed an Aerobics troupe who travelled to National Competitions. Karen was overwhelmed with pride for the students as they won a National Aerobic Championship. Once she resigned from that position in 2012, she moved to teaching Year 12 Hospitality and Nutrition.

She is a valued staff member at St Mary's and continues to share her knowledge with the young women who attend SMC. Karen continues to offer her time and effort to the St Mary's community and will remain to make lifelong memories. She has built strong relationships with the students and other staff members through her teaching career. Through Karen's journey she has treasured every moment and remains a pivotal part of St Mary's College.

Written by Lucy Palmer (student)

Jordan's strongest memory is when she was worried that she wouldn't make friends. However, some girls from her class came up to her and sat with her, they soon became Jordan's friends. Her proudest moment was making friends because she kept doubting that she'd ever make some. One of her biggest life lessons from St Mary's is, you do not always have to be included in things which doesn't mean you shouldn't push yourself. Another is to work as part of a team, even when you don't know the people you are working with, after all it's a team effort!

She believes school will prepare her for her future job and assist her in organisation, especially prioritising tasks. Saint Mary's has helped her to be who she is and has inspired her to be more outgoing rather than shy, Jordan now has the confidence to ask for help with her work.

Written by Amy Clune (student)

Lorna Starrs is the Deputy Principal at St Mary's College and her job is to work with students in Reception to Year 12. She said the community at St Mary's is very important as it brings everyone together and one which unifies and gives meaning to the spirit at St Mary's.

St Mary's has given Lorna many important life lessons and all these understandings have come from students who have experienced some tough times in their life. She has learnt how important relationships are at St Mary's and acknowledges it takes hard work to maintain positive relationships. The skills Lorna uses when she works restoratively with students, helps them to have conversations that repair their relationship with others. She also works by listening and being empathetic when working with all students. Lorna said one piece of advice is to be comfortable with yourself.

Written by Hannah Bugeja (student)

Olivia Novakov is a current student at SMC. She came to SMC in 2012 for Year 3 and will continue until 2021. She remembers a day at SMC when she decided to go down a slide, due to wet conditions she fell off! Olivia continually says, 'Be yourself to make friends and be the best person you can be.'
 
She was excited to play an important part in her Junior School play. SMC encouraged Olivia to play many instruments including violin, piano, bass and drums. Throughout the start of Olivia's schooling at SMC she struggled with friendships and work, so she became a Big Sister in 2019 to help students in their first years at SMC.

SMC shaped Olivia to be a strong leader, an independent woman and to be a welcoming person. She wants all students to enjoy every moment with their friends, follow the rules as applied and respect everyone.

Written by Bianca Portaro (student)

When Mariah first started at St Mary's College, she was very shy. Over the years she made friends and became more confident.

Being at St Mary's has taught her many things, like managing her time responsibly, so she never leaves assignments and homework until the last minute. She says that attending this school has helped her develop a deep passion for music. Mariah is currently part of the Concert Choir and has vocal lessons. She is also part of the Big Sister Program. Mariah is very happy that she chose St Mary's over other schools. She says that what she has, and will learn here, will greatly help her in later life. Her message to the younger students is, 'Try your best and always think positive. Remember there is always room for improvement.' Going to school at St Mary's has helped Mariah build up her confidence and become more motivated.

Written by Sienna Nickless (student)

Melinda O'Hara started at St Mary's College in 1988, when she was 12 years old. At the time, Marie Dorrington was the principal. She remembers her Year 8 classroom being on the third floor of the Moore building and the Middle School Library was located on the second floor. She also recalls boys attending SMC in the Junior School. Melinda's favourite subjects were Maths and Woodwork taught by Mr Waigth. She also enjoyed, English and Religion with Sister Mary Matthews, who was the last nun teaching at the school. She remembers her least favourite subject being PE. The summer uniform was pale blue with stripes.

SMC provided Melinda with many positive experiences, where she felt a sense of belonging and was accepted into the school community. Her happiest memories were the friendships formed, eating two chocolate donuts with a friend every morning before school started and being elected for SRC.

Written by Hannah Ismail (student)

Nicole Cermona, a current Primary School teacher and former St Mary's College student. St Mary's has taught her to be a young, confident and helpful person underpinned by the power of opportunity and community. While at school, Nicole studied Italian as a language and later used her knowledge when travelling to Italy with the Year 10 Language Immersion Trip. Nicole kept in close contact with St Mary's College and attended Year 12 Retreats as an Old Scholar. Since completing a degree in Teaching, Nicole is now a 2019 Year 6 teacher.

Nicole has always dreamt of having her own class and to bring joy to her students through new opportunities and learning skills. The most important thing that St Mary's College has taught her is the power of a community and how important having a support system is. Nicole states that she would not be who she is today without St Mary's College.

Written by Autumn Wijesinghe (student)

Renee Tsoulos is a past student and now teacher of the College. The College is at the centre of Renee's identity. Renee is proud to be part of the St Mary's community and holds her connections with her peers and teachers close. The teachers at St Mary's inspired Renee to become a teacher herself. She remembers her teachers being passionate and dedicated to their roles. Renee feels that the College has taught her to be confident, resilient, honest and welcoming to others.

As a student Renee enjoyed Social Justice Days and spending time with her friends. Now, as a teacher Renee loves coming back each day and putting 100% in everything that she does. At first, she felt nervous coming back to school as a teacher but now she feels settled. Renee states that no matter what you're going through, there's always a place for you at St Mary's College.

Written by Felicity Cheng (student)

Rosie Catrall began her time at the college in 2015 and will graduate in 2019. Rosie feels that the college has prepared her for her future, building her into a confident and empowered individual. A significant moment for Rosie was when she travelled to Cambodia in 2017 to volunteer and help young kids and their families. This experience has deepened Rosie's understanding of the world and provided Rosie with a different perspective on life. For 10 days Rosie taught English in a centre for kids. While this was rewarding, it was also challenging as Rosie wasn't familiar with the language.

Rosie feels the college has helped her with many things like confidence and standing up for what she believes in. Rosie has enjoyed her time at the college and has learnt life lessons. Her piece of advice for girls at St Marys is to make sure you experience it all.

Written by Ava Johnson (student)

Victoria Severin started at St Mary's College in Year 7 2016. From then on has found opportunities and friendships have been a major part of her experience. She has bonded with many students from her Year nine class last year. Vicky made friends with people she never thought she'd hang out with. Being educated at a city school, Vicky had the chance to experience meeting many new, lovely and delightful students and staff from all over Adelaide.

Another topic that Vicky spoke about was that there are so many activities offered at SMC. Vicky's advice to students is to take every chance that is given and investigate it before you decide, you never know you may like it. During these opportunities, she enjoyed meeting new people and getting out of her comfort zone. Therefore, St Mary's has helped her find confidence in herself and build strong relationships with her peers.

Written by Ailish Hutchinson (student)

Sophie recalled St Mary's as a place where she has made friendships that will last forever. Being involved with SRC, Sophie discovered a sense of leadership and a love of doing things to benefit others. Perhaps it was this sense that led her onto the Vietnam Pilgrimage; discovering new perspectives on life.

Having had many challenges at school has instilled a sense of determination that Sophie never would have discovered if not for her teachers. Sophie found a sense of belonging at St Mary's and learnt the lesson of not trying to change yourself for others, realising that the right people will find you if you stay true to yourself. Looking back on her time at school, Sophie realised just how much her friends and teachers have shaped the person she is today; a strong, independent woman who is ready to explore the outside world as she graduates this year.

Written by Kiara Hutchinson (student)

Tana Chirara started as a Year 8 in 2017 and has had many opportunities to become independent and self-reliant. Tana believes that men and women are equals, so that the world can be balanced. She has developed a passion for Design that has helped her take the initiative for school posters and websites.

SMC has opened Tana's eyes to the possibilities and achievements for women. Being independent has inspired Tana to live her life and dream out loud. She has learnt to take charge and to not be afraid of the challenges ahead. While at St Mary's College, Tana has taken responsibilities in the roles of Justice Representative, Big Sister and SRC. SMC had helped her become more confident in being able to step up. The teachers have helped her to believe that women can do anything and everything. She has become more open-minded and thinking about her surroundings.  

Written by Savannah Douangphoumy (student)