From the classrooms of PBC to the halls of one of the world’s most prestigious universities, Holli Sargeant, Class of 2013, has carved an inspiring path marked by curiosity, compassion and commitment to making a difference.
After beginning her journey as a proud PBC student with a passion for leadership and learning, she has gone on to build a remarkable career spanning law, human rights, and technology ethics. Now a Research Fellow at the University of Cambridge, she continues to explore how the law can keep pace with the ever-evolving world of artificial intelligence.
In this Q&A, she reflects on her time at PBC, the lessons that shaped her journey, and her advice for current students chasing big dreams of their own.
Career & Achievements
What have you been up to since graduating from PBC?
After graduating from PBC, I studied law and international relations at Bond University. I then worked as a solicitor at a commercial law firm, Herbert Smith Freehills, for a few years before moving into human rights and tech policy, including a secondment to the Australian Human Rights Commission. That experience led me to my current path, and (during COVID lockdown) I moved to the UK to pursue a PhD at the University of Cambridge, focusing on the law and ethics of AI.
What is your current role, and what does it involve?
I have recently started a Research Fellowship in Law at St John’s College, Cambridge, where I will be continuing to write and publish on how we can ensure fairness and accountability when AI is used for important decisions.
What have been some of your career highlights or achievements so far?
Some of the most impactful moments in my career have come from opportunities I never would’ve had without scholarships. Honestly, without outside funding, travel and study overseas just wouldn’t have been possible for me. At uni, I was awarded a New Colombo Plan Scholarship, which took me to Singapore and opened up a whole new world of ideas and connections. Later, I was incredibly fortunate to receive the General Sir John Monash Scholarship, which supported my PhD in the UK. Both of those opportunities gave me the chance to work alongside amazing people, explore different parts of the world, and think way bigger than I would’ve otherwise.
Did you pursue further studies after school? If so, what did you study?
I loved school and I never grew out of that. I completed a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of International Relations at Bond University, followed by a Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice. I have recently completed my PhD in Law at the University of Cambridge.
How did your time at PBC help prepare you for your career?
PBC provided a really supportive environment. The teachers encouraged us to pursue our interests, whatever they were. The Academic and Music Excellence programs were also hugely beneficial, teaching me intellectual curiosity, discipline and providing a creative outlet.
School Memories & Experience
What are some of your fondest memories from your time at PBC?
Some of my favourite memories from PBC are honestly just how varied everything was. One moment we were kayaking or surfing for sport (I mean other people kayaked and surfed, I just hung out by the water), the next we were rehearsing for a school musical or prepping for a debate. It felt like there was always something exciting happening and usually something very different from the week before! I loved that no two days were ever the same.
Were there any teachers or staff members who had a significant impact on you?
The teachers at PBC really shaped the experience for me. I was lucky to be taught all through high school by Ms Farrell, Ms Reid, Mr Hage, Mr Russell and Ms Ottaway—who are all amazing teachers and people. They somehow managed to be both supportive and challenging, which I think is the sweet spot.
What activities, clubs, or sports were you involved in at school?
Honestly, I think I tried to do every club and activity because I was one of few PBC students who had zero aptitude for sport. Being School Captain was such a rewarding experience. It gave me the chance to connect with students across all year levels and be part of shaping the school culture. I also loved being involved in school councils, volunteering, musicals and more. The Music Excellence program especially played a big role in my confidence and creativity.
If you could give advice to your high school self, what would it be?
I’d tell my high school self: You don’t have to have everything figured out, it’s okay to take a break sometimes, and no-one cares about your high school grades past your first year of uni. While the late-night study and extracurricular pay off, it's important not to forget to make time for the fun stuff.
Advice & Reflections
What advice would you give to current students who are considering a similar career path?
Most people will tell you to say "yes" to every opportunity, which is good advice, but it’s often not the most helpful. I think it’s more important to find people who will help you find those opportunities in the first place. I wouldn't be where I am without the nudges and suggestions from my teachers and family and friends. I’ll never forget Ms Reid telling me I’d make a good lawyer after an English assessment (was it a prosecution of Lady Macbeth?), or Ms Farrell writing a reference letter for me to become a Young Ambassador for UNICEF Australia, which opened so many doors. I have been rejected from more things than I have been accepted but it helps to have people who encourage you and support you along the way.
- How do you stay connected with your former classmates or the school community?
Not as well as I would like! While I love living in the UK, I often feel far from home and it is hard to keep up with everyone. But thanks to social media, I still stay in touch with a few close friends from my time at PBC.
From debating in PBC classrooms to presenting at international universities, Holli’s journey is a powerful reminder of how curiosity, courage, and community can shape extraordinary futures. Her story reflects the strength of a PBC education — one that nurtures not only academic excellence but also compassion, creativity, and the confidence to take on the world.
We’re proud to call her part of the PBC Alumni family and can’t wait to see where her path of purpose and innovation leads next.