Anais said her passion for creative writing was nurtured by her English teachers at St Andrew’s Cathedral School over the years. Her teachers let her know about more opportunities to increase her writing skills and knowledge which increased her appreciation of the writing process.
What was your favourite memory at St Andrew’s Cathedral School?
A highlight would be our weekly student-run Middle School Book Club. It started with just two and grew to over 20 students. We talked about books, but also about school and life. It transformed to be a nice pastoral group, and we did some great activities, including a tour of the below ground level of the State Library with all their oldest books!
With English Extension II and History Extension, you completed two major works. What was the focus of these essays and how did you make this work?
It helped so much to have regular, if not constant, consultation with the teaching staff. They are passionate about what they do, which in turn inspires passion in us. Plus, while they are very different courses, there is some overlap in the way they demand particular skills. For English Extension II, I researched Australian gothic women authors from the twentieth century. For History Extension, I looked into Spanish archaeology. Both subjects have the power to inform what we think of ourselves and our history.
“Managing two major works, it helped so much to have regular, if not constant, consultation with the teaching staff. They are passionate about what they do, which in turn inspires passion in us.”
Do you have any tips for students undertaking two major works?
Start with plan and stick with it. Being diligent with my writing schedule for both subjects was key.
You have a passion for creative writing. How was that nurtured by the School?
My passion was nurtured by my English teachers over the years. They looked out for opportunities that might be of interest, and I was lucky enough to participate in some of these, including the Immerse Summer School at Sydney University. This just increased my appreciation of the writing process.
What is next for you?
I’m looking at double degrees, so I can combine what I’m passionate about with an applied subject. Perhaps Arts and Law, or Arts and Science, whether in NSW or in the UK, where I can reconnect with people I met while undertaking the Immerse programme.
