Drew’s News is the St Andrew’s College student blog, a place for Androvians to express themselves, share perspectives and gain inspiration.
Meet Nina Friars (Fr 2020), one of Drew’s News Editors. Nina grew up in Poland and then moved to Perth for high school in 2012, before settling at St Andrew’s College.
What made you choose St Andrew’s?
Leaving behind my family and friends in Perth was harder than I’d like to admit. Moving inter-state, I chose St Andrew’s as I felt that its supportive community would ease me into university life away from home, as well as provide me with the opportunity to make meaningful connections.
What attracted you to the role of Drew’s News Editor?
My love for writing. I have always been passionate about reading, writing, and investigating new perspectives. I wanted to be a part of the Drew’s News editorial team to further hone e in on these passions.
What is your favourite part of being a Drew’s News Editor?
As a Drew’s News Editor, I am constantly reminded of the diversity within our college community, that everyone is in possession of a distinct voice. Being able to learn about and appreciate the different worldviews that make up St Andrew’s and, more broadly, our society, has been invaluable to me.
What have you learnt by being an editor for Drew’s News?
The power of sharing knowledge. Being an editor for Drew’s News, I can see first-hand the ways in which sharing experiences and perspectives opens up important societal, communal, and internal dialogue, enabling both our readers and writers to discover new ideas and ascertain a more globalised understanding.
What other extra-curricular activities have you taken part in at College?
There is so much to offer here at St. Andrews but, personally, I have been involved in Jam Night, We Need To Talk (a discussion forum that promotes discourse over a number of controversial and topical issues), Newtown Mission, as well as have participated in various writing competitions.
How has St Andrew’s helped you toward achieving your goals?
St Andrew’s has enabled me to achieve my academic goals through their distinguished academic program and the various workshops they endorse. Drew’s has also laid the foundation for my own personal growth in its provision of opportunities that have encouraged me to step outside of my comfort zone.
What’s the best thing about College?
The life-long friends I have made.
Do you have advice for anyone considering applying to St Andrew’s?
Attending St Andrew’s is a decision you won’t regret. The incredible people you meet, the doors that open for you, the skills you acquire – these experiences are priceless. Whether your passion is sports, music, or drama, St Andrew’s will push you to be the best version of yourself, in whatever way that means to you. It’s the experience of a lifetime.
Meet the other Drew’s News Editors: Stirling Taylor, Maya Smith, Gemma Hudson, Kiran Gupta.