Spotlight on Siena Staff: Leader of Pedagogy Classroom Practice, Lara Porczak

Spotlight on Siena Staff is an ongoing series of brief videos and articles that offer a glimpse into the insights, inspirations and guidance shared by our remarkable Siena College staff. Today, we have the privilege of conversing with Leader of Pedagogy Classroom Practice, Lara Porczak, to explore her passion for teaching and how this led her to transition from public relations to pursue a career in teaching.

How did you get involved in teaching/working as an educator? How did it all begin?

After spending several years working as a tutor, notably spearheading a tutoring program at my high school catering to students from disadvantaged backgrounds including refugees, I discovered a deep passion for teaching. I found immense fulfillment in imparting knowledge on subjects close to my heart and engaging with young minds. This rewarding experience inspired my transition from the field of public relations to pursue a career in teaching.

Where did you study and have you completed any further study since your Bachelors degree?

I pursued my education at The University of Melbourne, where I earned a Bachelor of Arts with a double major in Media and Communications, as well as Politics and International Studies. Following this, I gained experience in public relations before deciding to transition into teaching. Subsequently, I pursued a Master of Teaching (Secondary) at The University of Melbourne to fulfill my passion for education.

During my time at The University of Melbourne, I achieved recognition with the Dean's Honours Award for ranking within the top three percent of the Melbourne Graduate School of Education cohort for two consecutive years.

Could you share any extracurricular activities or engagements you have been involved in during your university studies or throughout your professional career?

When I was studying at The University of Melbourne, I was the sub editor and writer for student publication, Farrago. In 2022, I presented at the Comview Conference on VCE Business Management. I have also been a Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA) curriculum panel member and VCAA assessor, and I am currently on the Victorian Commercial Teachers Association advisory group.

What do you see as the ‘point of difference’ in Catholic and/or single sex education?

The ‘point of difference’ in a Catholic school is that the key pillars of our Dominican Tradition underly all that we do, from academics and pastoral activities to cocurricular programs.

Who were your favourite teachers growing up and why?

I attended a disadvantaged government school in the North West region of Melbourne. Although my school lacked resources, it did not lack fantastic teachers. I was lucky enough to have some amazing teachers in school, particularly my Legal Studies teacher. She was very organised, knowledgeable and had a good sense of humour. I would like to hope that I also bring some of that to my classes too!

What do you think is Siena College’s unique selling point?

Siena College’s unique selling point is the high level of support provided to students – both academic and wellbeing support is exceptional at this school. This is also what students usually reference when asked what their favourite part of the Siena College community is.