Sisterhood Series Continues to Inspire in Term 3
Building on the momentum of Term 2, students in Years 10, 11 and 12 continued to embrace the Sisterhood Series throughout Term 3.
Held weekly during recess in the Careers Hub, these informal sessions enabled students to connect with Santa Maria alumni working across a diverse range of professions. For many students, hearing directly from women who once walked the same halls and have since navigated study, career choices, and life after school was both encouraging and eye-opening.
Our guest speakers shared stories of their educational journeys, the decisions that shaped their careers, and the lessons they have learnt along the way. They discussed the highlights and challenges of their work, offering advice and support with warmth and honesty.
We are so grateful to each alumni who gave up her time to join us and inspire the next generation of Santa Maria women. These sessions offer a meaningful opportunity for students to ask questions, explore their interests, and envision their future with confidence.
Here are the alumni we had the pleasure of hearing from in Term 3.
Dr Steph van der Moezel (Class of 2007)
After completing her medical degree and training as a General Practitioner, Steph now works in both city clinics and regional outreach. She shared the highs and challenges of GP life, and what drew her to medicine in the first place.
ClancyRose Higgins (Class of 2016)
ClancyRose works as a Biomedical Scientist and gave students insight into what happens behind the scenes in a clinical lab. She spoke about the importance of accuracy in testing and the real-world impact of her work.
Sophie Hammond (Class of 2016)
After completing a double degree in Politics & International Relations and Behavioural Science, Sophie dove into internships, mentoring and volunteering before spending a number of years delivering high school and community-based programs to young people across WA. Sophie has since completed further studies and commenced work at the WA Mental Health Commission in public education and health. Her advice? “Don’t lose sight of what’s important to you. Follow what you care about, and everything else will fall in place.”
Dr Su Lin Lim (Class of 2006)
Su Lin, a Dental Surgeon, offered a fascinating look into surgical dentistry and what it takes to stay steady under pressure. She also discussed her community work and the satisfaction of helping others smile again.
Eleanor Paterson (Class of 1975)
With a career spanning decades, Eleanor spoke about her journey in nursing and how the profession has evolved. Her stories from the early days of hospital placements were both insightful and inspiring.
Courtney O’Connell (Class of 2019)
Courtney recently completed her studies in Psychology and now works in private practice. She spoke about supporting others with mental health challenges and the importance of compassion in her daily work.
Mary-Anne Curtin (Class of 2010)
Mary-Anne is an Occupational Therapist who helps people regain independence in daily life. She explained how creative thinking and care go hand-in-hand when working with clients in recovery.
These sessions are a valued part of the Santa Maria experience, helping students connect learning to life and explore where their own passions might lead them. We look forward to welcoming more alumni in 2026!
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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.
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