Where are they now? 

The more I do this role the more I discover the incredibly varied ways in which we go about our life-long learning and career journey. I absolutely love what I do and not surprisingly it fits well with my interests, passions and skills. But I didn’t start out with this in mind, I just landed here via a series of opportunities and decisions.

So, for all those students (and even adults) wanting a definite answer – do not panic, it’s normal to ‘not know’ what you ‘want to do’. Not convinced? Maybe start by having a conversation with your parent or guardian about whether their role now reflects what they had in mind when they were your age?

With this in mind, I share a great alumni article from Ty Osborne, whose pathway is built on work-based experience and a willingness to accept a variety of opportunities along the way.

What year did you finish school? 

2005 - I finished at the end of Year 11.

What are your memories of MSCW?

I have so many great memories of my time at Marist-Sion. I made incredible friends that I am lucky enough to still be close with today. Funny story (not sure if this is relevant or useful), one of my most embarrassing memories was actually my first day of school. Before starting at Marist, I lived on Groote Eylandt in the NT, and only moved down a few days before starting at school. I missed the orientation, so my first day was the first time I had seen the school and I didn't know a single person. I went from a school of less than 90 kids, to a single year level with way more than that. On Day One, Year 7 students meet and sit in the centre of the Hall, and the ritual of ‘Call Up’ ensues, so we can be introduced to our House and Tutor. For me, it reminded me of the Harry Potter Sorting Hat. Osborne is typically called out pretty late in the roll call, and by the time it had reached me, my legs were fully asleep. I stood up, and tried to walk, but fell straight over…on my face. I got up once more, a little dizzy now, took a couple more steps and fell over once again, this time landing on the Principal – Mr Holt. The entire room erupted in deafening laughter, and while I like to laugh at myself, this was too much. I felt like this would be my first and last day ever, I wasn't planning on going back. My mum eventually convinced me (aka forced me) to go back the next day, and I am so glad I did. While I didn't have the best start at Marist- Sion, by the time I finished, I was surrounded by friends and I felt like I belonged to a community, more so than I have ever felt since. Looking back, I really cherish my memories of Marist-Sion, for the great friends I made and the opportunities it created for me. Now I can only hope my kids can attend a high school so safe and supportive.

How do you think your experiences at MSCW helped you become the person you are today?

In Year 9, I failed IT. It was the only subject I ever failed, I was even given the opportunity to make up for it and reverse the grade, I didn't take it - this eventually taught me one of the greatest lessons about myself, and I believe in others around me, it also helps me be a much better leader. I didn't fail because it was too hard, I failed because I didn't want to try. I didn't want to try, because I had no interest. I wanted to ride motorbikes, and party and had assumed I would end up a mechanic of some sort. I had no use for IT, it really wasn't for me. Within 6 months of failing that class, my brother introduced me to developing websites, after that I was completely hooked on what I could create with the technology. Websites, Development and technology, in general, became an obsession. Something that still excites me every single day and is a big part of why I do what I do. I love it, it is exciting.

Was there anyone at MSCW who had a positive impact and on reflection, influenced you to follow the pathway you have chosen?

I had a lot of great teachers. In particular, my math teacher was amazing. Mr Garry Treuel was extremely supportive and taught lessons that I couldn't forget, even if I wanted to. For example, in one session I remember him dancing across the front of the classroom with an umbrella (mock sword) while playing dramatic music, pretending to cross the drawbridge (=), kill the guard, climb the tower (/) kill the dragon and rescue his princess Brunhilda (x). Somehow, this lesson helped me understand Algebra, and taught me the correct order to tackle these equations. He also taught me a very important lesson in how to write code (instructions), detailed enough for a robot to understand them. This didn't come in handy until many years later, but I still remember the lesson.

What did you do after leaving MSCW and where are you or what is your role now?

After leaving Marist-Sion I started work at Star New Group in Pakenham initially as an IT trainee and eventually as IT manager. After 7 years, I started as the IT manager at Baxters, where I stayed for 2 years before I decided to start my own business. I am now the Founder & CEO of BrainStorm Software. A company that helps create awesome software for our clients all over the world. We have an extended team of about 30+ people. I spend my days helping my team create fun/awesome technology.

Greatest accomplishments and/or defining moments?

• Having a family - I have 4 awesome, fun kids;
• Starting BrainStorm;
• Solving problems with technology that I didn't think was possible;
• Building an entirely remote business, before it was cool;
• Having an incredible team of people around me, I am proudest of helping some of my staff hit their goals and earn big;
• Having a business that can run while I am snowboarding.

What advice would you like to give any of our current MSCW students, especially those considering a software/technology pathway?

Firstly, your job in life is to find your purpose. Until finding it, try as many things as you can, and enjoy yourself while you do. Don't stress so much about finding the perfect career, just choose your first career - chances are you will change it many times. To choose your first career, choose something you have a passion for, something you get lost in, something would do whether or not you are being paid....but pick something you will get paid for :) For me, that is programming (I love it) and, no one would pay me for riding motorbikes and partying :) No matter what field you choose, to maximise your income, learn to lead people. Also, don't be afraid to ask for help, develop this skill. If you are heading into technology, AI is the next big thing. I also think web technologies and Javascript specifically will have the most diverse applications. 

Anything else you would like to include (eg. future pathways plans)?

Starting a business (both my successes and failures) have taught me more than any amount of Study/University ever could. I recommend everyone plan to start a business at some point in their life. It will make you a better person, and certainly more valuable to any potential employer. 

Those interested in learning more about Ty’s interesting pathways might like to check out his software business BrainStorm here, as well as a recent article he featured in for Australian Aftermarket Automotive Association (AAAA) Magazine. I particularly like that his love of cars remains, as well as Ty's responses to skills v attitude (Q9); what Ty feels he ‘got wrong’ (Q8) and his advice (Q6). 

Source: AAAA Magazine p.96-97, Trade Talk, Brainstorming for Success. Available here.