Preparation, consistency, and a strong foundation - Meet Emma Ford, Class of 2020

Emma, what are you doing now the you have graduated from St Margaret's? 
I am currently in my second year at the University of Canterbury, studying a double degree in Arts and Law. 

Is it what you expected to be doing when you left school?
When I left school, I did not have a clear idea of what I wanted to study or pursue in the future. However, I always knew I enjoyed English-based subjects and classes where I could interact and talk with people, which is what led me to study Law and the Arts. I have really enjoyed my time at university so far and love studying both degrees. 

What has surprised you the most about life after SMC?
What has stood out to me most about life after SMC is how much more independent university life is. There is a much greater level of self-discipline and personal responsibility involved, especially when it comes to managing your own time and balancing different commitments without the structure of school.

At the same time, I’ve realised how valuable the skills developed at school really are, especially communication, resilience, and the ability to manage a demanding workload. Living at College House in my first year also played a significant role in easing that transition, as it provided a supportive environment and the opportunity to meet people from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences across New Zealand.

Looking back, how did NCEA prepare you for your next steps?
NCEA prepared me well for the transition into university, particularly in developing skills such as time management, organisation, and independent learning. The assessment structure helped me become more confident in balancing multiple deadlines and working consistently throughout the year, which has been very valuable at university. 

My time at SMC further reinforced the importance of being academically disciplined and organised while balancing a range of other commitments. Many of the study techniques, organisational habits, and time management skills I developed there have continued to be incredibly useful in managing the demands of university study. In particular, preparation, consistency, and maintaining high academic standards provided a strong foundation for my studies. 

What advice would you give current students as they think about life out of school? 
One piece of advice I would give current students is not to feel pressured to have everything figured out before leaving school, as it is completely normal to be unsure about what you want to pursue in your future. 

I would also encourage developing strong habits early on, such as staying organised, planning, and being proactive in your learning, as these foundations make a significant difference when transitioning beyond school. It is equally important not to be afraid to ask for help and to make full use of the support systems around you. Additionally, I would encourage making the most of the opportunities SMC offers and enjoying time at school with your friends, as the friendships and relationships you build will last well beyond your school years.

Finally, keeping an open mind is essential, as things do not always unfold exactly as expected, but those changes and challenges often become some of the most valuable parts of the learning experience.