Ashburton College was where I was able to truly find and develop my creative self. Drama and Art were my forte and I have to thank my teachers Claire Bubb and Claire Robertshaw who whole-heartedly supported me throughout my years at Ashcoll. If it weren’t for them I definitely would not have had the courage to follow the path I had always desired, so I am forever grateful!

I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to be Red House Captain in my final year along with my Co-Captain - Charlie Morrison. This was such a beneficial experience for me as I found my voice and grew leadership confidence which is crucial to the career path I have chosen.

As soon as I finished in 2013, I moved to Auckland to study on-screen acting, film directing and screen writing at South Seas Film and Television School.

My painting skills helped me get my “day job” which is face-painting at kids birthday parties so that was a bonus!

As I’m sure we all did; I made life-long friends in those College gates that will always mean the world to me. I am so proud of my roots and I would not be who I am today if it weren’t for what I learnt in the supportive environment Ashburton College had to offer. There are multiple precious memories from being on the netball court to performing at music and dance evenings that I will always reminisce back to in good light.

I cherish my years at Ashburton College so much and believe it was the true foundation (along with my parents!) that gave me the determination and drive to achieve my goals I am currently aiming for.

RESURGAMUS – Rise Again - Some of my fondest memories are the days spent at Ashburton College.  It is where my thinking was challenged to look beyond the boundaries of our suburbs, or our town to look to the wider district and the world.  Ashburton College provided many firsts, including first love – David and I are thankful for those days. Ashburton College is for many the highest end of our formal education. I for one appreciated the school culture and the focus on citizenship and community that created a desire to serve the community now. The faculty were (and continue to be) spectacular and inspiring.  I’d like to congratulate the Alumni team for this initiative and there are many of us who are eager to give back to the School that gave us so much.

Donna Favel

While I was still at school, I was supported by our local Rotary to attend the National Rotary Science Forum which really cemented my desire to pursue science, particularly Health Sciences.

I finished Ashcoll in 2012,  headed to Dunedin, and studied first year Health Science and complete a Bachelor of Science, majoring in Neuroscience.

Towards the end of my first year, I was presented with the Zonta Young Women in Public Affairs Award, National and then International, which was an incredible honour. This was mainly for the events and volunteering I had been involved with during my time on the Ashburton College Student Executive and Ashburton Youth Council. After finishing Neuroscience, I applied for both the Honours program and the Medicine & Surgery program. I missed out on Otago Medical school but was lucky to be given a place in Auckland so there was no looking back!

My attendance at Ashburton College  formed many enduring friendships, gave me inspiration and self belief. I wouldn't be where I am, or the person I’ve become. I feel really fortunate to call Ashburton my Tūrangawaewae, because so many people from larger centres around the country don't get to feel the community love and support that I have.
I can see myself coming back to a smaller region like Ashburton, where doctors are most needed. For now however, I will tolerate the traffic jams and enjoy the hundreds of delightful cafes!