Student Profile Marianne Alegre

Kia ora everyone! My name is Marianne Alegre and I am the Head Student of CGHS for 2025.

Describe yourself in 3 words

Personable, considerate and self-motivated

What extracurricular activities or clubs do you participate in at school, and what do you find most enjoyable about them?

During my time at Te Kura O Hine Waiora, I have been involved in a variety of committees such as charities, welcoming, wellbeing, house and also the student council. I have also endeavoured in the sporting opportunities and have had the honour of being a part of the rowing team at our Kura for three seasons, from 2021-2024. Rowing has enabled me to become challenged, both mentally and physically. It has given me a new profound perspective on work ethic and grit. I have really enjoyed the social aspect of rowing and that it’s allowed me to connect with people from different year levels. Rowing has definitely given me life long friendships. 

As of recently, at the beginning of 2024, I joined the kapa haka group. I was welcomed with open arms and felt very welcomed, yet truly humbled to be immersed in the beautiful culture that is Te Ao Māori. To be welcomed so wholeheartedly in this close knit group is something I am utterly grateful for. Being a part of this group is such a beautiful experience and something I am very grateful to the school for. I really enjoy engaging in Waiata and Haka, and performing alongside the kapa haka  group. It is such a privilege to celebrate Te Ao Māori with pride alongside such incredible people.

Can you describe some positive or memorable experiences you’ve had at CGHS

A memorable experience I have had at CGHS is taking away a silver medal at South Island Secondary Schools in the Novice Girls 8. This achievement was a testament to the challenging season of hard work and dedication. It proved the term “do the mahi, get the treats” to be very true. It was extremely rewarding to cross the finish line alongside my teammates and knowing we had left it all out on the water. We were beyond proud of ourselves with the clarity that we had ended our season on a high note. Unfortunately, we were unable to go to the national Aon Maadi Regatta that season due to Covid. However, despite the circumstances, we persevered, aimed high with the circumstances we were given and that is something that will always stick with me. This experience inspires me everyday to aspire for greatness no matter the circumstances.

What are your favourite subjects at school and why do you enjoy them?

While every subject is special and enjoyable in some way, I’d have to say my favourite subjects are History and Psychology. These subjects are always so insightful and I am constantly entertained and engaged by the content that is offered. Learning about historical events allows me to have an adapted viewpoint on looking at the modern world and helps me see how far we have come as society, and how far we can still go. Likewise, Psychology has enabled me to see how complex our mind and behaviour really is. The assignments for both of these subjects involve a lot of reading, writing and critical thinking which is right up my alley. I have a passion for researching and comprehending different content, so to then write up and display my work just adds to the experience. I also really enjoy that in History and Psychology, there is room to have some creative ownership and add personal flair through my own interpretations.