Back to Boarding – Meg’s Santa Maria Story
For many students, graduating from Santa Maria College means stepping into the world with cherished memories and lifelong friendships. For one of our 2014 graduates and past boarders, Meg Flugge, it also meant one day finding her way back, this time as a valued member of the boarding team.
A Homecoming Like No Other
Returning to Santa Maria has felt like a full-circle moment.
“It’s quite surreal, like a homecoming,” she shared. “Being on the other side has given me a whole new appreciation for the boarding staff. As a student, I don’t think I fully realised just how much work goes into coordinating, supporting and supervising all the boarders.”
Memories That Last a Lifetime
Her years as a boarder were full of standout moments. A Visual Arts tour to Paris and London in Year 11 was her first time overseas, an experience she describes as unforgettable.
Another highlight was being selected for the Young Mercy Justice Tree program, connecting with student leaders from across Australia to discuss social justice initiatives. Many of those friendships, including with students from St Aloysius in Adelaide, remain strong today.
But one memory stands above the rest: the Opening Mass in 2014, her Year 12 year. As College Liturgy Captain, she addressed the school community on the Figure 8. “Speaking to the largest audience I’d ever faced, with that stunning backdrop, was such a special and unforgettable moment.”
Why Return to Santa Maria?
After a career managing dental clinics, she was ready for a change. A position as Boarding Administration Assistant opened up, shared with her by one of the current boarders, and it felt like fate.
“To come back and contribute to the experience that shaped me as a person is such a cool opportunity,” she said.
Bringing Boarding Experience Full Circle
Her own time as a boarder gave her insights that are proving invaluable in her role.
“Boarders leave Santa Maria as resilient, independent, empathetic young women. Boarding teaches initiative, adaptability and emotional intelligence. I’ve lived it, I’ve been in trouble, I’ve navigated the challenges, I know the tricks. That helps me support the girls authentically.”
Looking Ahead
She’s most looking forward to continuing to get to know staff, students and boarding families. “Everyone has been so warm and welcoming, it’s been such a positive experience already.”
Her advice to Year 7 boarders? “Stay open! Boarding will give you opportunities you never imagined, especially coming from rural communities. Try everything.”
And while the Milo machine might still be her most nostalgic “boarding meal,” her weekends are now filled with creativity, softball, painting, drawing, and trips down south to catch up with friends.
Why the Boarding Community Is Special
Reflecting on the heart of Santa Maria boarding, she shared something she only truly appreciated after leaving.
“Boarding expanded my idea of family. Those girls I lived next to became my chosen family. We’ve celebrated weddings, shared holidays, and supported each other through life’s highs and lows. The boarding staff gave us a safe space to figure out who we are and who we want to be. That bond is lifelong.”
Her journey from student to staff member is a beautiful reminder of what makes Santa Maria’s boarding community so unique: a place where connections go far beyond graduation, and where coming home is always possible.
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Author: Santa Maria College
Santa Maria College is a vibrant girls school with a growing local presence and reputation. Our Mission is to educate young Mercy women who act with courage and compassion to enrich our world. Santa Maria College is located in Attadale in Western Australia, 16 km from the Perth CBD. We offer a Catholic education for girls in Years 5 – 12 and have 1300 students, including 152 boarders.
