Exploring Post-School Pathways with Unserious Careers

With the Senior Expo now in the rear-view mirror and Year 11 subject selections just around the corner, many of our Year 10 students are starting to ask themselves some big—often daunting—questions:
What comes next? What do I want to do with my life? Why do I feel unmotivated or unsure?

It’s important for both students and families to know that these feelings are completely normal.

To support our students in navigating this phase, we were thrilled to welcome Alana Kilmartin, author of Unserious Careers, to speak with our Year 10 cohort. Alana offered an honest, refreshing perspective on post-school life and reassured students that the path to a meaningful career doesn’t need to be a straight line.

The “Casual Jog Years”

Alana introduced the idea of the Casual Jog Years—the first five years after school—as a time for exploration and discovery. Whether it’s part-time work, travel, short courses or volunteering, this period is about moving forward without pressure, trying new things, and learning by doing.

Career Superpowers

Rather than stressing over rigid career paths, Alana encouraged students to discover their career superpowers—the personal strengths, talents and interests that can shape their future. Whether it’s creativity, empathy, problem-solving or communication, aligning future work with these strengths will lead to more meaningful and fulfilling careers.

Embracing Uncertainty

One of the most powerful takeaways was that it’s okay not to have it all figured out. Career planning isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. Alana reminded students that making mistakes and changing direction is all part of the process.

The College library now holds four copies of Unserious Careers by Alana Kilmartin. We encourage all students in Years 10–12 to borrow a copy and explore its helpful insights.

Junior Elective Interviews

Families are invited to book an optional appointment to discuss elective choices for 2026. These interviews are ideal for families seeking clarity on how subject choices can align with a student’s strengths, interests, or long-term goals.

Appointments are available online or in person and can be booked via Conferences in the Compass Parent Portal.

We look forward to supporting students as they make informed choices for their future.

Careers and VET Coordinator