Boarding Report – May 15, 2015

Director of Boarding

The future!! People seem to spend so much time worrying about what the future may hold -“ I often look to characters in our rich past, far wiser than me, for inspiration and none have had more influence on me than former British Prime Minister, Winston Churchill. Churchill once said “It is always wise to look ahead, but difficult to look further than you can see”. How very true these words are -“ and how apt for many of our boarders. As I moved through boarding school I would spend significant time looking forward to my weekends, my holidays, moving into a more senior year level -“ and perhaps not enough time grasping each opportunity that each new day brought with it. Forward planning is essential, especially for our Yr12s, who can see the -‘light at the end of their educational tunnel’ and begin to think about what the next step in their life’s journey may be. However too much focus on what might be can often be at the detriment of accomplishment in the present. Finding the balance, as Churchill alluded to, is far harder than it may seem. It is at these times that our boarders in particular can trust in the support and care that surrounds them at St Patrick’s College and know that there will always be someone to help them, to guide them. Our message is a simple one -“ work hard in the present and your future will take care of itself. US President Barack Obama championed this sentiment “The future rewards those who press on. I don’t have time to feel sorry for myself. I don’t have time to complain. I’m going to press on.” Our boarders are busy people, with numerous commitments but they need to take ownership of their learning, of their own future. They need to seek advice and feedback from those more experienced and knowledgeable than them. They need to be proactive in all they endeavour.

As I looked out over our boarding community, enjoying a beautifully prepared Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea last Sunday, I had one overriding feeling -“ whatever the future holds -“ it is in good hands with the rich, talented boys that call St Patrick’s College boarding their home.

Look after yourselves.

Mike Silcock

Captain of Boarding -“ Will Jury

How is my future unfolding?

If I was honest I think I would be right in saying that I, along with majority of my cohort, still have little idea of a definite career path-way or a life after school. With this in mind and so much of the world to see a Gap year is most appealing. However the most prominent career option in my eyes at this moment in time would be to study Agriculture at Melbourne University. I would say that boarding has aided this idea as a majority of my fellow boarders grew up in different regions, mostly rural areas, surrounded by agricultural influences consequently making it a talking point around the dining table. As a result this has somewhat furthered my knowledge into a broader array of farming making it a possible career option. However like I said initially, I am still indecisive so a year off would probably be the most plausible option.

Whatever lies ahead I look forward to the challenges that will be presented.