Back to Learn

MAI THATCHER

Commitment to personal growth and lifelong learning are dispositions the College actively encourages and develops in our students. In keeping with this mantra, Springfield Old Scholar, Marcelo Arriagada-Malone, has recently returned to St Peters Springfield on a workplace-based internship.

Graduating in 2017, Marcelo is currently studying in his final year of a Bachelor of Creative Industries at Queensland University of Technology (QUT) and made the request to complete the internship with the College.

Marcelo was the second student to be enrolled at St Peters Springfield with his older brother, Alexis, being the first. Whilst at school, Marcelo made a strong contribution to our community and served in a variety of leadership roles, including School Vice-Captain (2017), Sports Captain (2017) and Cunningham House Vice Captain/ Captain (2016/2017).

We asked Marcelo why he chose to return and to share his experiences at the College.

Mai Thatcher (mt): Why did you choose to intern back at the College?

Marcelo Arriagada-Malone (ma-m): As a Creative Industries student, I find that I work best when I feel personally invested in the work that I am creating. Being an Old Scholar, it felt like an obvious choice to apply to intern here. It makes the work such a joy to engage with when working in a familiar environment and as part of the community.

mt: How do you feel being back after graduating?

ma-m: I've been working different jobs across Indooroopilly and Springfield these past few years, so it doesn't feel like I ever really left. However, it feels rather nostalgic to be working with the staff and students during school time this time around. At the same time, it is also interesting to see all the changes the school has undergone since I was a student.

mt: How did your journey at the College prepare you for life after graduating?

ma-m: Following the values of the College has always been helpful in developing caring and respectful relationships with those around me, colleagues and peers alike. I've always been one to subscribe to the philosophy of showing everyone common decency and respect. I credit that to my upbringing with the school.

mt: Do you have any advice for our Year 12 students who are about to graduate?

ma-m: I'm going to sound a little generic, but my advice would be to be confident in yourself as an individual. The world outside of school is very competitive. You'll find you're comparing yourself with those around you a lot. There'll be challenges and hurdles thrown at you that may make you doubt whether you're good enough to be where you are. Always remember, you bring much more to the table than just your physical work. So, don't undervalue yourself.

The College is pleased to be given the opportunity to assist Marcelo to complete his internship. We're supporting him to work at the Springfield campus with video production, photography, and the creation of other digital assets.

There is little doubt Marcelo will continue to be successful into the future with his Plus Ultra mindset. The College is proud of our Old Scholars and takes great pride in continuing our relationship with them beyond school. All are valued members of the St Peters Old Scholars Association (SPOSA) and 'Saints for life’. Continue to aim ‘ever higher’ Marcelo!