Spotlight on a Scholarship Student #3 - Teacher in the making!

Olivia Moll, 2024 Teacher Scholarship Recipient

Applications for the 2025 CSPD Teacher Scholarship Program are closing soon and we’re celebrating the success of our 2024 scholarship recipients.

Olivia, the third student in our series of Q&A profiles, has some great advice if you’re thinking of applying for a 2025 scholarship.

Olivia Moll, University of Sydney, Bachelor of Secondary Education (History & English)

Which Schools (Primary/Secondary) did you attend?
I attended St John XXIII Catholic College Stanhope Gardens from Kindergarten to Year 12.

Why did you decide to start teaching?
During high school, there were excellent teachers in my orbit who allowed me to be passionate about learning. The impact teachers had on me was significant, and whether it was a teacher I liked or didn’t like, the way I learnt from them affected me greatly. I aspire to be a teacher who can empower youth like my teachers did for me.

What advice would you give to students who are thinking about applying for a CSPD Teacher Scholarship?
Just do it! The people behind this scholarship are one of the friendliest, all-inclusive teams I’ve seen for youth programs today. If you’re thinking about doing Education, being a part of this scholarship has so many benefits - one of the biggest is having invaluable support throughout your uni journey. I’d also recommend being yourself during the application process, and allowing your personality to shine through! You got this :)

Olivia is enjoying working as an Associate Teacher at St John XXIII Catholic College while studying

What has been the best thing about being part of the scholarship program?
The best thing about this scholarship for me is the exposure to different voices in Education throughout the diocese. Before I started this program, I didn’t think about the ‘mental’ aspect of being a teacher, and how managing a classroom isn’t as simple as it seems. Being in this scholarship has meant that I can seek wisdom from teachers and leaders from across CSPD. I love hearing different tips and tricks for teaching, how to take care of yourself, and so much more.

The CSPD Teacher Scholarship gives students practical work experience opportunities

Have you had any practical teaching experiences or placements? If so, what do you most enjoy about working with students?
I’ve been doing practical experience at St John XXIII (my old school), and I’m just entering my second term as an Associate Teacher for Years 11-12. My favourite aspect about being in the classroom is empowering students and building positive relationships with them. The teachers that I’ve worked with allow me to run masterclasses on different aspects of content around the subjects I teach. I’m grateful for such good practical experience because it provides a realistic environment and the chance to interact with the grades I will eventually teach full-time.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time outside of your studies?
If I’m not catching up on sleep (best uni tip: don't lose sleep!), I’m always hanging out with friends, or reading a book. My friends and I always try to see each other once a week, and do something fun and enjoy each other’s company. University can be stressful sometimes (or always!), and knowing you have an amazing group of people who also go through these experiences is a comfort. Humans are social creatures after all!

What is your favourite memory from your own school experience?
Muck-up week! It truly is the Year 12 ‘calm before the storm’, and the amount of effort everyone goes through to dress up and let loose, all for the sake of memories is priceless.

Learn more about the CSPD Teacher Scholarship Program and apply for 2025