Meet 2024 Andrew’s Scholar Nathan Sewart. Nathan (Fr 2024) is pursuing a Bachelor of Actuarial Studies and a Bachelor of Advanced Mathematics at the University of New South Wales. Originally from Adelaide, Nathan chose St Andrew’s College for its culture, values, and the opportunity to experience college lifestyle.
We caught up with Nathan to find out more about him.
What are some of your hobbies, skills and achievements?
Some of my favourite hobbies throughout high school were debating, water polo, and music. I was my school’s debating captain, played lead clarinet and trombone, and worked in the community as a school prefect. I am an avid music fan, big maths nerd, and love spending free time sharing my passion for maths through teaching.
What made you choose St Andrew’s College?
I chose Drew’s for its culture and values, and to experience college lifestyle. Living with other talented individuals while transitioning into adulthood looked like a challenging yet exciting experience. When applying I was drawn to Drew’s willingness for progress and change, critical thinking focus, and student led environment. Now less than one semester into college life I can certify the college’s commitment to these values as genuine, with the atmosphere here making every day exciting and unique.
What does being a St Andrew’s Scholar mean to you?
To me, being a Scholar is a commitment and an opportunity. A commitment to engage with the Drew’s community, to build upon the college’s traditions and culture, and to apply myself wholeheartedly towards service—intercollegiate, and academic—based pursuits. Over the course of my time at Drew’s I aim to make the most of this opportunity and contribute significantly to college life.
How has your experience of university been impacted by this scholarship?
Without this scholarship I would not have had the ability to move interstate. Furthermore, as universities in South Australia do not offer actuarial studies, I would not have had the opportunity to pursue my degree of choice.
What activities have you been involved with since moving to College?
Since moving to College, I have participated in external, internal, and intercollegiate activities. Externally, I enjoyed volunteering through the commserve program. Internally, I have especially enjoyed the many PCL initiatives, the We Need to Talk sessions, and Highlander nights. And although only participating as a viewer for the Rawson, Rosebowl, and Palladian competitions so far, I look forward to trying out for debating later in the year.
What has made you feel at home, here at Drew’s?
My friends and the phenomenal staff. Moving to another, much bigger, city was daunting at first. However, everyone at Drew’s has made this transition so much easier. I feel especially supported by some friends who, too, hold solidarity in my experience of moving away from home.
What has been your favourite memory at College so far?
I don’t have one specific moment so far, as each week has had another unique and memorable moment. I will say I have particularly enjoyed watching some of my very talented friends’ victories in the Palladian competition.
Do you have any advice for students considering applying to Drew’s next year?
Do not let the fear of the unknown hold you back. College may seem daunting at first, but the opportunities, challenges, and unique experiences available at Drew’s make it a very rewarding, and all the more engaging, experience.
Our Andrew’s Scholars are provided full fee relief for the duration of their time at College for a maximum of three years. Read more about our 2023 Andrew’s Scholars: Kokulaan Santhakumar, Mirren Fitzgerald and Lily Webster.