Meet FS teacher Wendy Cai

What class do you teach?

Accounting in the Foundation Studies program.

What do you enjoy most about teaching at Trinity College?

My favourite thing about teaching at Trinity is the interaction with students from diverse cultural backgrounds. It helps broaden my perspective as we learn to share and exchange different ideas.

For me, teaching is an extremely rewarding career as it allows me to have a positive influence on young people’s lives by inspiring and motivating them to achieve their best. I love the “lightbulb moment” when my students first understand a new concept and how it could apply to their lives.

It is also very gratifying to witness the individual growth from each of my students throughout their duration of study, and to be able to celebrate with their individual achievements when they secure their dream university offers.

When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I always dreamed about becoming a writer when I grew up.

As a kid, I loved reading and was always enamoured by the stories and characters depicted in novels. The books always take me into authors’ real or imaginary worlds and I get to experience life through the eyes of characters in these stories.  

I admire the creativity and passion writers put into their stories. I think we can always learn something new in each and every book we read. It also helps shape us into a better person and relate better with our peers.

What was your favourite subject at school?

My favourite subject at high school was Math Methods because I found solving logical questions both challenging and satisfying.

Most importantly, I had a wonderful teacher who’s very passionate about teaching and was always available for any students who needed extra assistance. He was excellent in both his explanation for complex math problems and always encouraged us to reach our potential.

What is your favourite thing about Australia?

My favourite thing about Australia is the people. I came to Australia with my parents when I was 14. I found that Australians are diverse, friendly and down to earth. I felt welcomed here and had a real sense of belonging in both my local community and the school I went to.

What’s the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given?

Treat others the way you want to be treated.

What is your life philosophy?

Live your life in the present moment: do not dwell in the past, do not worry too much about the future, focus on living fully in the present. YOLO!