Emanuel alumni return to guide students through career paths
Emanuel School, Randwick, has brought 40 alumni back to campus to help senior students think more clearly about life after school.
The school hosted its annual Careers Space event as part of National Careers Week, giving students in Years 10 to 12 the chance to speak with former students working across a wide range of fields, including medicine, engineering, business, creative industries, property and emerging technologies.
Emanuel School alumni and students at the Emanuel School Careers day
The event was designed to give students practical insight into post-school pathways, including university, work, gap years and the changing nature of modern careers.
Rather than presenting careers as a straight line, Careers Space focused on the reality that many working lives involve change, setbacks and unexpected opportunities.
Emanuel School Principal Linda Emms said the event reflected the strength of the school community and its commitment to preparing students for life beyond the classroom.
“We are incredibly grateful to our alumni who return to the school to participate in these experiences. They are not only role models for our students, but a powerful example of our graduate attributes in action: intellectually curious, adaptable, confident, articulate, and deeply connected to their communities,” Ms Emms said.
“At Emanuel, we are committed to preparing our students not just for academic success, but for life beyond school. Initiatives like Careers Space ensure our students are equipped with the insight, resilience and adaptability needed in an ever-changing world.”
Alumnus Jack Smagarinsky, from the Class of 2022, said it was rewarding to return to the school and speak with current students from the other side of the table.
“It was great to return to Emanuel School and be on the other side of the table, guiding motivated students through HSC, university and career perspectives,” he said.
“From ‘should I take a gap year?’ to ‘how can I get into finance?’ the students were curious and eager to learn, which is critical to the development of strong Emanuel graduates.”
The school said Careers Space forms part of its broader focus on educational excellence, legacy and connection, linking current students with graduates who can offer practical advice and firsthand experience.
