Alumni Appreciation Interview

Garrett Munyard

What years did you attend Waverley Christian College? 

I attended the Narre Warren South Campus of Waverley Christian College, joining in 2015 and graduating in 2017. 

What is your fondest memory of your years as a student?

I remember attending a boy’s camp in Year 10, where we camped near the Upper Yarra Reservoir. We found a myriad of ways to entertain ourselves, from building a spit over the fire, to glad wrapping our teacher’s car as a prank, and eating at Buxton Burgers. It was good fun and memories.

What were the biggest challenges you’ve faced since leaving School?

I probably would have to say Covid. The societal changes and norms that were made have really changed how people socialise and do things. Trying to live, study and work was definitely difficult. There have been a lot of changes since then, which make me feel like I’m relearning how to do different things. 

What goals did you set yourself when you finished at WCC, and have you stuck to that plan?   

During my first year out of school, I didn’t have a goal. I just planned to study and do what I could. However, since beginning my journey to becoming a Commercial Pilot, my goal was to see it through, despite all the disruption coming in and out of various lockdowns. After more than a dozen exams and hundreds of flight hours, I was able to complete all of my training and finally meet all the requirements to get my Commercial Pilot’s License, in almost three years. Since then, my goal has been to build my experience and make it to the mission field as a Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF) Pilot.   

What drew you to your area of work or study this year, and what do you love about it?

I initially went to study engineering at RMIT, as I loved studying science and the field of engineering. However, I began to realise that Engineering was not a very physical career and instead was generally a 9-5 desk job. So, I met Jeremy Dover (Head of Biblical Studies) and through him I was introduced to the ministry of Mission Aviation Fellowship. Since then, I have worked hard over the last five to six years to achieve my Commercial Pilots License, whilst completing a double Undergrad (Bachelor of Business and a Bachelor of Aviation) through Swinburne University of Technology. I love the prospect of being both practical and spiritual hope to people who otherwise don’t have any. 

What is the best piece of advice you've ever been given?

There are two sayings that I have always remembered. The first one says, “find what you love doing and figure out how to get paid doing it”. I left the prospect of Engineering to peruse a call I felt to serve. It may not pay as well, and I definitely work harder than I initially thought it would require, but I love the work I do and people I serve. I have never regretted a day in the career that I have chosen. 

The second one is “Success is where hard work meets opportunity”. The older I get, the more I realise that I don’t control everything in my life. Whilst walking with the Lord, I have come to learn that it is my responsibility to be diligent with the gifts and skills that I have, and that it is God’s responsibility to provide the opportunity. Success is not having things or being rich. Success is found when God honours the work and diligence you have invested, by providing you with the opportunities to use your skills for his glory. 

What excites you most about the future?

I can not wait to step into ministry, as I feel like I’m on a precious adventure. Though I know ministry’s operandum is from a heart of humility and service, I can’t help but feel excited to see more of God’s creation on this earth, impact and change people’s lives. There is a surreal fulfilment in finally being able to see how I can use the skills and qualifications that I have worked so hard to gain and build for the betterment of others. To get to MAF has been a long road of perseverance and grit, but I give thanks to the Lord and for those who have walked with me to finally see a dream come to be realised.

What advice do you have for current students?

Society only values you for what you are able to produce. Your looks, your career, your skills and your money. God’s kingdom values every human being on this earth, not for what they bring, but because they are image bearers of God. Find your identity in Christ, not in your career or job.

Any additional comments? 

If you would like to get in touch and learn more about the ministry that I am looking to embark on soon, please reach out to me at gkmunyard@hotmail.com or my phone number at 0435 229 460.