Cat's at Sea: Courtney Hanlon Aboard
By Sian O’Sullivan
Courtney (left) at St Catherine’s College Commencement Dinner
St Catherine’s College and the Leeuwin Ocean Adventure Foundation are both non-profits working with young people in Western Australia, so it is no wonder so many of our incredible residents and alumni have been involved with both of the organisations at some point.
One of our current residents, Courtney Hanlon, is studying a Bachelor of Arts with a Double Major in Psychology. She recently shared with us her fond memories of her time on the Leeuwin, and how the College experience can be similar to an adventure on the high seas.
How have you found your time at St Catherine's?
I have found my time at St Catherine's to be among many other things, valuable, convenient and enjoyable. The available resources and connections that come as part of being a resident are extremely valuable, especially the faculty dinners! The location of St Catherine's College is very convenient due to the close proximity to UWA, the city, and public transport services. Overall, my time at college has been enjoyable. The social aspects of being a resident are second to none, and being a regional student, is an experience you can't get elsewhere.
What are some of your achievements and/or career aspirations?
Over the years I have had many sporting and academic achievements. Throughout high school, I achieved many academic awards and was a successful netball state league player along with other sports. I am involved in the dirt track Motorsports community and have years of boating experience. Some of my aspirations involve wanting to pursue postgraduate studies in UWA's Masters of Corporate Psychology course. I would love to own my own business one day and help others to operate successful businesses using my understanding of human behaviour and thought processing in the workforce.
When did you first participate in a Leeuwin voyage or sail?
Courtney’s view from the rigging on board the STS Leeuwin
I first participated in a Leeuwin Voyage in 2016 when I was in year ten of high school. I was introduced to the Leeuwin program with thanks to my school, Geraldton Grammar School. I knew other students who had participated in the program and had many years of boating experience so I was keen to get out on the water and see what new skills I could learn.
What did you enjoy about your voyage?
There was an endless amount of elements to enjoy about the voyage. Looking back, I really enjoyed the new information I was able to learn. I also really enjoyed working with so many other people from various backgrounds to achieve a big goal. At the beginning of the voyage, it felt as though the end goal would be near impossible, and by the end of the trip we were able to successfully achieve that goal, that was the most enjoyable feeling for myself. I also loved making some great friends who I am still in touch with today.
What skills or lessons did you learn from being involved with Leeuwin?
I learned many skills and lessons onboard the Leeuwin- I think I would be lying if I said I remember them all! At the time it was really fun to learn all of the practical skills needed to operate the ship effectively. Reflecting on my experience, the most valuable lessons learned for myself was the developed understanding of leadership, as well as the self-development process I experienced. I have a sound resume of leadership experiences, especially in the sporting field. However, my time on the Leeuwin was a leadership experience like no other; I still implement skills I learned in that time nowadays. The Leeuwin also taught me endless strategies regarding working well in teams and finally, it taught me to make the most of your opportunities- which is a very valuable lesson to learn at that age!
What do you think of the community at St Catherine's and the Leeuwin?
I think the community at St Catherine's and the Leeuwin, is strikingly similar. Despite the Leeuwin being a sailing ship program and St Cat's being a residential campus, both programs have a very strong sense of community that I would compare to a family feel. Both communities are very resourceful and supportive; furthermore, in both these communities, you have the resources and the support that you need to challenge yourself, achieve big things, and obtain a very positive experience.
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