THE QUADRANGLE Attention, introducing Lieutenant Cosgrove!
Infantry Platoon Commander Winston Cosgrove (13238), 27, is living proof for following your dreams. When university studies in both Hong Kong and Palmerston North failed to ignite his passion, he decided to undertake full time officer training at Waiouru in the New Zealand Army – and has never looked back.
fostered through sport. Boarding school was great preparation for the challenges I have faced so far, particularly with regard to being independent and having to adapt quickly to new environments and people. Why did you decide to study in Hong Kong? When I left College I still didn’t have a set plan as to where I was heading career-wise. I felt I wanted to delve into international business in some way. As such, I decided that a law degree would be a good base to build from. I chose Hong Kong in particular as I have dual citizenship there, and thought it would provide something of an adventure after high school, perhaps even a place to live for some time. What prompted you to join the Army? The more I studied law, the more I realised I wasn’t passionate about the subject. It became a case of me studying law for the sake of studying law, rather than for the enjoyment of it. I returned to New Zealand and whilst working as a labourer I got in touch with an uncle of mine who was, at the time, in the NZ Army. After many discussions, I decided I would give it a go, because it sounded like a career path that would suit me well.
Winston shared his story with Year 13 boys last year, and was back at College in June to enlighten those attending a Careers event organised by Careers Advisor Chris Sellars. Formerly Head Prefect and a boarder in School House throughout his years at College, those experiences set Winston up well with leadership and independence.
Here, he shares some thoughts with College magazine. What did you enjoy most at College and how did College prepare you for the challenges of life since? Definitely the thing I enjoyed most was the sense of camaraderie and mateship I found at College. This was not found just in the boarding experience but also
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