Sancta Sophia News Blog

What is your full name?

Patrick Barry Kroek

Where are you from originally (city, state, country)?

Wollongong, NSW, Australia

Tell us a bit about where you are from.

Wollongong is a relatively large coastal town about 80km south of Sydney. It’s a lovely spot, with countless beaches to the east and beautiful countryside and the escarpment to the west. It is home to the internationally recognised University of Wollongong, where I completed my undergraduate degree in Exercise Science.

What are you studying?

Medicine  at the University of Sydney.

How did you come to live at Sancta?

Both my grandmother and cousin have lived at Sancta in the past and I had heard many good things about the college – especially with regard to the food! When I was accepted into the USyd Medical Program and was looking for somewhere to live on campus, Sancta was the obvious choice.

What do you like most about living at Sancta?

I love the close-knit feeling of the college atmosphere. It is wonderful to be living in such close proximity to so many interesting, wonderful people.

Did any of your family also live at Sancta?

Yes Helen Wills my grandmother, and Rebecca Kroek my cousin

What are your plans when you complete your studies?

I have so long before I have to start worrying about my career that I would rather just take every opportunity as it comes and enjoy my student years to the fullest. With that said, I hope to travel extensively in the future and learn as much about the world as I can.

What advice do you have for potential & new Sancta students?

Sancta has much to offer in terms of its extra-curricular cultural and sporting activities and I would encourage all prospective and current students to grasp every opportunity with both hands as it arises. Your college experience will be that much more satisfying for it. Don’t be afraid to try something new – you may surprise yourself.

Please tell us about the photos you have included:

1. An action shot of me in the acrobatics routine of Cadavatar – the 2010 Sydney University Medical Revue.

2. Me as Jack Sully in Cadavatar (top).

3. Pat and Patsy (Sancta’s resident dog).

4. One of the pictures from a scavenger hunt with Sancta vet students, including fellow RA Valeria.