Reflections

Avondale College's Alumni Association announced Young Alumni of the Year during a recent forum on the Lake Macquarie campus, but the recipient is still studying.

Sarah Clifford graduated with distinction from a Bachelor of Science (chemistry) in 2002. She returned the following year, completing a Bachelor of Teaching while also completing a first-class honours degree in chemistry at the University of Newcastle. She is currently completing a Doctor of Philosophy in analytical chemistry at Newcastle.

During her acceptance speech, Clifford spoke highly of her experience at Avondale but admitted to never being sure of what to do next. She referred to an illustration a friend had drawn for her. The illustration came with this piece of advice: "If you hold the handle . . . it's easier to maintain the illusion of control. But it's more fun if you just let the wind carry you."

Alumni association president Pastor Roger Nixon presented the award to Clifford. "Avondale provides us with the opportunity to become valuable people in society," he said. "It is a well known fact that those who obtain their bachelor's degree become leaders and movers in their community."