Bella Gray
Year 11 student Bella Gray from Texas has boarded at St Margaret’s since Year 7 and is enthusiastically involved in all aspects of school life. She enjoys her involvement as part of the school rowing team and studying STEM.
“St Margaret’s has offered me endless opportunity, including sports such as rowing, the chance to look after international students visiting the school, STEM subjects, meeting international girls who took part in the exchange program and many more,” says Bella.
Bella also appreciates living within the boarding house’s diverse global community.
“I’ve gained not only an understanding of those who live across the globe, but a sense of respect and appreciation for their unique cultures and admirable personalities. I have learnt about their lifestyles and also their cuisines.
“There is a myriad of aspects in boarding life that I love and value, but my favourite part would be having my friends constantly nearby. Through boarding I have made some amazing friendships and the memories and fun times will forever be cherished. Having my friends there through the tough times has offered endless support,” says Bella.
Bella aspires to study occupational therapy when she finishes at St Margaret’s and would love to give back to her hometown community returning to work in the local hospital or a neighbouring town.
Gabriella Sedgwick
Gabriella Sedgwick from Scone, NSW has been a boarder at St Margaret’s since Year 8 and says she loves the sense of community and comfort within the boarding house.
“Being surrounded by a group of lovely girls ensures there is never a dull moment. It is extremely reassuring to know that if I am ever in need of help there is a team of girls there to support me; I always feel at home when in the boarding house,” says Gabriella.
Gabriella intends be a nurturing role model, promoting a sense of inclusiveness, when she leads the boarding house next year.
“I aspire to be someone the girls can come to in times of need and to prioritise the needs of the community above my own,” she says.
A keen sportswoman, Gabriella enjoys rowing, touch football and water polo. She also studied in Hong Kong for three months as part of the school’s Global Exchange Program.
Gabriella identifies the boarding house’s annual ‘See my difference, See my worth’ festival as just one of the many opportunities to expand students’ global horizons.
“The festival showcases different aspects of the cultures that are a part of our boarding house, allowing all students to recognise the differences between them.
“Through living with a diverse group of girls I have learnt to respect and value different cultures,” Gabriella says.
Although still determining her future study and career plans, Gabriella is exploring all options and plans to study at university when she leaves St Margaret’s.
Bella and Gabriella both plan to continue to nurture the strong sense of belonging and appreciation amongst the boarding house community when they take on the role of boarder captains next year.