Student Podcast Beyond theGates:

In 2021, Korowa launched a student-led podcast, Beyond the Gates, where each episode provides a unique insight into our alumni.

Initiated by Deputy Principal Liana Gooch together with Alumni Manager Ian Robertson, the intention of this project was to not only highlight and value the diversity of our alumni in their career journey beyond school, but to create a tangible connection between current students and alumni, whose story can be of benefit to the broader community.

As two of our pioneering podcasters, Snigdha and Gabi, completed Year 12 and became Korovians themselves, applications opened up to students in Years 9-11 to apply to join the student team for Term 4 and into 2023!

Replicating a real-world application and interview process, applicants were asked to respond to the position description, attach a cover letter and resume and were invited to attend a panel interview. Dimi (Year 11), Audrey (Year 10), and Isabel (Year 12), were successful, and join Phoebe, Year 12 in the Beyond the Gates Podcast Team for 2023.

We asked our three successful applicants about the application process:

1. What was the application process like?

Audrey: I wrote and sent in a cover letter, outlining some of my experiences and my interest in podcasting.

Isabel: It replicated a job application process in real life which I think is very helpful, particularly for students in younger years, who might be searching for their first job.

Audrey: As you tend to develop your own unique personality and verbalise your skillset in your application, I discovered that being able to communicate this clearly was important in preparing for the role.

2. Any advice for someone wanting to apply next year?

Isabel: I think it's always important to research everything you can about the position you're applying for and think about any possible questions you might be asked at the interview.

Dimi: My advice would be to just go for it! Don't be afraid to give it a try.

Audrey: Have an open mind and be willing to show a passion in learning and sharing with others!

3. What are you excited about with BTG?

Isabel: I'm excited to learn more about the interview and editing processes, especially getting more experience with marketing, communications and journalism.

Dimi: One thing that I am very excited about is getting to interview past Korovians, and to be able to share their knowledge with current students.

Audrey: I am excited about interviewing Korovians - their stories are so inspirational, and I hope that through listening and engaging with them, I can also learn new things and broaden my world view.

4. What’s your favourite episode of BTG so far?

Isabel: My favourite episode was Power of Purpose with Cassandra McKeown (Class of 1980). I think it's amazing how she has travelled the world and learnt so much from her global experiences.

Dimi: I really enjoyed the Dr Hannah Macdougall (Class of 2005) episode, What are some of your happiest moments? Hearing Hannah's story and what she has achieved to date, while facing adversity.

Audrey: A curiosity for the unanswered questions, is my favourite episode so far, as Dr Anstee’s (Class of 2006) career path in helping others is incredibly inspiring.

By Casey Dean, Marketing and Social Media Specialist