Patrick Nam

Bachelor Degree: Bachelor of Education (Secondary) & Bachelor of Music

Current Position: Music Teacher at Saint Ignatius’ College Riverview

1. What attracted you to studying Arts & Social Sciences at UNSW?

Well looking at the variety of subjects on offer and the GERRIC program really caught my attention to study at UNSW. Another aspect that made me realise I wanted to study at UNSW is the amount of ensembles and also the different areas of music that can be studied.

2. Did you always have a clear idea of what you wanted to do after completing your degree?

Yes, I had a very clear idea on what I wanted to do after uni.

3. How did your time at UNSW help shape who you are today?

Studying at UNSW has allowed me to become myself and also share, explore my love of music and teaching all in the in one span whilst studying at UNSW. The cohort that I was studying with was what made it even more enjoyable.

4. How did studying Arts & Social Sciences at UNSW help you develop transferable skills?

I believe it allowed me to challenge ideas and situations that was given in tutorials, lectures and etc.…. I know for a fact that we were given the freedom to explore all aspects of these skills.

5. How did studying Arts & Social Sciences at UNSW help form your view on the world and the contemporary issues we face today?

All the topics covered and explored in the course was relevant to the current period whilst also allowing for us to grow an understanding of the view on the world with similar issues in the given area of study.

6. How did UNSW Arts & Social Sciences help prepare you for the workforce throughout your degree?

The opportunity for study in the course has allowed me to experience the workforce through the professional experience team sending us out on our practicums. I really found more of my experience teaching by applying for my casual teaching number and started working as a casual teacher here and there at multiple schools which allowed me to really understand the workforce more.

7. How did you get your foot in the door as a graduate, following the completion of your degree?

I started working already as a casual teacher whilst still studying which gave me the upper hand when applying for jobs. The biggest challenge that arose was working part-time and studying which I would not ever change again if given the opportunity because it gave me the ability to time-manage and also further my teaching skills.

8. What advice would you give to someone considering studying Arts at UNSW?

I would say really research what you would want to study, once decided to visit the faculty during an open day and ask ask ask questions! The best way to know is to ask!

9. What is your most memorable experience from your time at UNSW?

Being able to collaborate with my colleagues and explore the multiple events that were accessible whilst studying.

10. Why do you Love What You Do?

I love what I do because I can make a change in a students life somewhere down the track! Not only this but we are the first line of education that students will come across as teachers, because we can help shape our students from our knowledge, life experiences and also for the opportunity for me to engage in teaching my favourite subject in the world to students!