Sarah Merry, 21, knows how important mental health and wellbeing is during VCE. She chats to Sumeyya Ilanbey.
What’s your connection to Melton?
I’ve lived here all my life – I’m 21 now.
What’s your favourite thing about living in Melton?
I like how child-oriented we are. There are a lot of kids in this town, and I like that we have so many playgrounds, so many schools, because I’ve always loved kids. If I’m visiting, for example, the Macedon Ranges, I love that it’s quiet, but it’s mainly [older] people who live there. I like that the population here is young.
What would you change about the area if you could?
As much as I love how many schools we have, the quality of education in the western suburbs is pretty low. Expectations are also very low. The closest university is Victoria University in Footscray. Other than that, the quickest drive is 50 minutes to any other uni; you know how shocking public transport out here is.
How important is mental health during VCE?
Extremely important. There is so much pressure packed onto you in years 11 and 12 … and then the year after year 12 is also very challenging, mental health-wise. You’re chucked into the world after being in school for 13 years, and people expect you to know what you’re doing. I was so excited about life after school. I was hoping to have six hours of sleep at least, do this and that, and work and save money. But I became a workaholic and had no balance.
How did you stay sane during year 12?
I sought help in lots of different areas – I went to yoga, I had a psychologist. I remember feeling like I had to go to all these different places, just so I could feel human again.
Where’s your favourite place to hang out in Melton?
The library … or Gloria Jeans.
