Welcoming Back Our Alumni

Written by Ms Jo Miles & Mrs Hope de Sousa (Careers Advisors)

03 August 2026

This term, we warmly welcomed back five former students - not to chase up overdue library books - but to hear the stories that have shaped their lives since leaving the College. Their experiences, shared with our Year 10 cohort, offered a reassuring message: career journeys are rarely linear and uncertainty in Year 10 is completely normal. 

Across all five stories, a common thread emerged. None of our panellists knew exactly what they wanted to do after school in Year 10, and each described a pathway shaped by curiosity, trial and error, and the discovery of what truly interested them.

They encouraged current students to choose VCE subjects based on personal strengths and genuine interest rather than scaling. With VCE being a two-year commitment, selecting subjects that feel meaningful and engaging is one of the best ways to support wellbeing and success. 

Our alumni panel included Aleksandra Kusljic (2018), Jenna Humphries (2002), Julia Vaiano (2016), Liam Evans (2013) and Liam Wiemann (2013). 

Aleksandra completed a Bachelor of Science majoring in Microbiology, followed by a Master of Public Health. She now works at the Environment Protection Authority, where her focus on epidemiology shapes her day-to-day work. Although she always loved science, her career direction only became clear during her undergraduate years. She remains fascinated by the evolving epidemiology landscape, including recent developments such as the bird flu outbreak. 

Jenna’s pathway has been anything but straightforward. Initially training as a remedial massage therapist, she developed RSI and had to pivot. She then completed an accounting degree and worked in the field for several years before deciding to pursue a trade. After completing her apprenticeship, Jenna became an A-grade Electrician and now works on major government infrastructure projects - a role she finds deeply rewarding. 

Julia completed a double degree in Law and Global Studies at Monash University. Throughout her studies, she explored every internship and placement that sparked her interest, helping her identify which areas of law she enjoyed most. After graduating, she secured a graduate position and was later approached by a professional contact she had met along the way, leading her to her current role as an employment lawyer at K&L Gates. 

Liam Evans (pictured) completed a Bachelor of Commerce and a Master of Marketing Communication. Although he once imagined becoming a paramedic, keeping an open mind during VCE helped him discover an interest in business. He is now the Marketing and Communications Manager at Catholic Ladies College and enjoys the creativity and variety of his work. 

Liam Wiemann is an Osteopath working both in private practice and with the Essendon Football Club’s men’s and women’s teams. He chose Osteopathy at RMIT for its hands-on nature and has since gained experience treating a wide range of injuries, travelling with sporting teams, and meeting people from all walks of life. 

These alumni reminded our students that meaningful careers grow from curiosity, courage and staying open to possibility. Their stories show that there is no single right path - only the one that feels right for you. 

If you’d like to explore subject selection, pathways or future options further, our Careers Team is here to support you. 

We would also like to hear from more former students who would be willing to share their stories. Contact careers@aitkencollege.edu.au

A reminder that we will be welcoming back students from 2021, 2016 and 2006 on Friday 20 November, for their school reunions.

Free registration is open now by clicking on the images below.