Throughout his schooling years, Sam was always conscious of the underlying values of care and compassion which exist within the Catholic education system and what this meant to him as a student.
“The efforts and deep concern of the many teachers during my school experience, contributed greatly to my overall enjoyment and success of the journey,” says Sam.
Sam began his education at Holy Family Primary School, Merewether Beach and continued onto St Pius X, Adamstown and St Francis Xavier’s College, Hamilton. Sam was offered alternative high school options, however chose to remain in the Catholic system for its “holistic and rewarding education”.
“When I completed primary school, quite a few of my peers sat for the Merewether High School entrance exam,” recalls Sam.
“Six of us were accepted that year, conclusively evidencing the excellent work of teachers at Holy Family, such as my mum. Of my peers who were accepted to Merewether High, I was the only one to decline the offer and continue my education in the catholic system.”
Now thriving at the University of Newcastle studying a Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical)/Bachelor of Engineering (Mechatronics), Sam is glad he chose his own education path.
Reflecting on his time at St Pius X, Sam speaks of how the school offered a stimulating and fulfilling experience, where he became passionate about his favourite subject, HSIE, with Mr Flanagan.
“Mr Flanagan’s delivery of content was both enthralling and motivating and he could always relate extremely well to the students.”
Sam also excelled during his time at SFX, showing great strength not only in academics but also in sporting, community and social extracurricular activities, awarding him a well-rounded educational experience.
A Catholic education has not only benefited Sam’s future endeavours; it has afforded him the opportunity to be awarded the 2016 HSC Dux of the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle, a title he feels “humbled and honoured” to have received.
Sam looks forward to his future with much hope and anticipation, citing Reba McEntire’s famous quote, “To succeed in life you need three things: a wishbone, a backbone and a funny bone”.