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What inspired you to study a teaching degree?
I was inspired to study teaching in Year 10 when I participated in a school program to work with Year 7s as an introduction to high school. The program was fun and rewarding and it allowed me to see myself in a teaching role. It helped me to realise that being a teacher was something I could do and enjoy for a long time.
How do you think the scholarship you have received will help you achieve your goals?
The scholarship I have received helps me to continue in my degree because I do not have to work so often to support myself, giving me more time to focus on my studies as well as more time to enjoy myself. This stops me burning out and keeps me motivated to study.
Is there a past teacher who inspired you or who you have positive memories of and why?
I was inspired by many of my high school teachers and try to embody some of their best traits, but my biggest inspiration was my Year 11 and 12 maths teacher. She was very committed to our outcomes and helped me to see that maths was a girl sport too. She also studied at the same university I joined which feels very special.
What are the qualities that you think makes a good teacher?
I think a good teacher truly cares about their students and what they achieve. They are flexible and considerate of their students’ needs when they are teaching, and they present content in a way that shows they really enjoy and are passionate about what they do.
What are you looking forward to most about being a teacher?
When I graduate I am most looking forward to joining a school community that values the differences in people. I hope I will be able to make a difference for students and hopefully unlock some hidden talents and passions for maths.
Are there any teachers in your family or friendship circle – if so, what advice did they give you?
A friend of my parents is a high school biology teacher, and the best advice I took from hearing about the way she taught was to put in the effort I want to see from my students. When I teach, students will be able to see how hard I worked on the presentations/assessment of their content and knowledge, and if I am not giving it my best, how can I expect them to do their best?
What has been the best advice you’ve received while studying teaching?
The best advice I have received while studying is to enjoy my time at uni. When I graduate and begin working full time there will be less opportunity to explore my city, visit the beach in the middle of a weekday, stay out late, or enjoy my own learning. So I have been trying to remember that while I am working hard to get my degree, I am also enjoying the first years of my adult life.
What advice would you give to anyone considering studying teaching?
My advice to anyone considering a teaching degree is to try it out first. Take on some work where you will get to spend time around kids, volunteer at your local junior sports club or scout group, so you can see how it feels to work with children and teenagers and figure out if you like it. I only realised I wanted to teach after spending time around younger kids in a mentor role, and you’ll realise pretty fast if you love it or hate it.
What advice would you give to anyone applying for the Commonwealth Teaching Scholarships Program?
My advice for anyone applying for the program is not to sweat it too much. The organisers have made the application process really straightforward, which is nice compared to many other scholarship programs.