Drew’s News is the St Andrew’s College student blog, a place for Androvians to express themselves, share perspectives and gain inspiration. This year, Drew’s News debuted a new organisational structure, introducing several editors amongst the breadth of writers coming and going through our hallowed halls.
Meet Gemma Hudson (Fr 2021), one of Drew’s News Editors. Gemma grew up in Canberra and attended Canberra Girls Grammar School before settling at St Andrew’s College, and she is now studying at the University of Sydney.
What made you choose St Andrew’s?
I was drawn to the variety of opportunities Drew’s provides. Being at Drew’s would allow me to continue with many of the activities I loved in high school, and would allow me to meet people who excelled at these activities.
I also appreciated the culture of excellence that was conveyed to me, and the people I knew who attended college told me great things about Drew’s as well.
What drew you to the role of Drew’s News Editor?
During my first year at college, I adored not only writing for Drew’s News, but reading the articles as well. My fellow students had perspectives on issues I had never even considered, and I felt that reading their work taught me a lot.
I also appreciated the way people supported each other’s work. Whenever I published an article I would receive messages from my peers saying they enjoyed the piece, and I would also tell others when I liked their articles. This drew me to the idea of working with individuals more closely to support their writing and ideas, so naturally, the idea of being an editor was appealing to me.
What is your favourite part of being a Drew’s News Editor?
I really enjoy the collaborative behind-the-scenes work with each writer for their articles. Being able to see an article go from first draft to publishable is really exciting to me, and I love to give feedback to assist the writers to produce their best possible work. I’m also always impressed by the ideas of my peers, some of which don’t tend to come up in casual discussion, and by editing and reading the work of others, I think I gain a greater appreciation for those around me.
What have you learnt by being an editor for Drew’s News?
I have learned lots about the way different people communicate. When editing someone’s writing, sometimes I’ll make stylistic edits, and the writer can choose to accept or decline those, because not only is editing about spelling and grammar, it’s about the writer’s intentions. I think where the writer and editor disagree is where I’ve learned the most, seeing the specific choices others make to communicate certain ideas, especially where they’re different from the ones I would have made.
What other extra-curricular activities have you taken part in at College?
During my time at College, I’ve been a part of the Choir and represented college in Palladian Group Vocal, I’ve been in Jazz Band, been a part of the team for Palladian Debating, done the lighting for last year’s Dramsoc play, and been on the team that organised this year’s Mother’s Day dinner.
How has St Andrew’s helped you toward achieving your goals?
Being around such ambitious and talented people inspires and motivates me to achieve my own goals. The people around me teach me so much, which I will carry with me even after College to make my goals reality.
What’s the best thing about College?
It’s a tie for two things that are the best about College. One, the amazing people I’ve met, many of whom I think I’d never have had the opportunity to get to know otherwise, and two, the ability to continue with activities that have given me joy my whole life, like choir and debating.
Do you have advice for anyone considering applying to St Andrew’s?
My biggest piece of advice is that you should just go for it.
I think for some people applying for opportunities can be stressful, but there is nothing to lose and so much to gain. Remember what’s unique and valuable about you, and just back yourself.
Meet the other Drew’s News Editors: Stirling Taylor, Maya Smith.