Learning the Ropes brought real-world career insights straight to our students.
Hosted by the Old Andreans Association (OAA) on 12 June, this biennial event welcomed over 400 students from Year 9 to 12, along with their parents, for an evening packed with rare insights and invaluable real-world advice.
More than 80 professionals volunteered their time to attend – the majority of of which were Old Andreans, but we also had Hessians (former School parents) and current parents as well. Over 50 different careers were represented and attendees walked away full of insight, inspiration and opportunity.
Our industry volunteers shared what their career pathway was like, the best and worst parts of their current job, and whether they have changed professions. They also talked to students about what pitfalls had faced and shared tips on what they wish they had known when they first started out.
The evening provides a fantastic opportunity for students and their families to consider next steps and career choices
“The evening provides a fantastic opportunity for students and their families to consider next steps and career choices. It’s a chance to gain honest insights into university life and career options – both the joys and the pitfalls,” said Director of Community Engagement, Ms Lyn Jarvis.
The wide range of industry professionals included Old Andreans from all of the major Sydney universities – from recent graduates, all the way through to seasoned professionals. It was brilliant to see so many students interacting with alumni, asking insightful questions and getting helpful advice to inform their future direction.
It’s wonderful to see our current students building connections with Old Andreans, and it’s unsurprising how quickly they seem to find common ground with those who have been through the same School.
“Every time the OAA host this event it’s wonderful to see our current students building connections with Old Andreans, and it’s unsurprising how quickly they seem to find common ground with those who have been through the same School,” said Alumni Relations Manager, Mr Richard Hansen (OA2003).
“Learning the Ropes provides a space for students to ask real questions about the options they are considering for the future, and get authentic, realistic and practical advice from members of our community.”
A special thank you to this year’s panellists Lucy McJannett (OA2015), Izabella Louk (OA2015), Joey Watson (OA2014) and Rachel Durmush (OA2015), and our expert facilitator Thomas Stevens (OA2015). The panellists all finished up at school approximately 10 years ago. This is considered the optimal age gap for current students – to hear from people who have finished their university degrees and have recently started working in their respective careers.
This event would not be possible without our Community Engagement Team and the ongoing connection between the School and the Old Andreans Association. In addition, we are grateful to every volunteer from our community who gave their time to help.
It was great to see everyone and we’re already excited for the next one!
