Copperfield College Alumni
Copperfield College Alumni Program
The Alumni Program is more than just a database of past students; it’s a living, breathing network of experiences, achievements, and memories.
The program aims to reconnect former classmates, celebrate milestones, and open doors for current students through classroom talks, events and mentorship.
Whether you're a graduate of 1985 or 2005, your journey and insights matter. Joining the Alumni program means joining a legacy of lifelong learning and community at Copperfield College.
“The Alumni program provides a picture into how students can lead change and become entrepreneurs with significant contributions to the community.”
Dr. Mandy El Ali, class of 1993
Inspiring the next generation
There are many ways to get involved in the Alumni program.
Whether it’s through social media, school events, newsletters, or other channels, we’re creating a space for Alumni to stay involved, share their achievements, and give back to the community.
As Alumni, your stories and insights help light the way for the next generation of students exploring what their future could look like.
Your story could be the motivation someone needs to pursue their dreams.
Joseph Alkarra. Engineer. Dux. Valedictorian. Inspiring role model.
After leaving Syria during the civil war, Joseph arrived in Melbourne with his family, and commenced at Copperfield College's Sydenham campus for his Year 10 studies.
Despite arriving with limited English, Joseph persevered through challenges with remarkable determination, a deep passion for learning, and an unshakeable work ethic – ultimately achieving outstanding academic success.
In his Valedictory speech, Joseph credited a pivotal mentor in his high school mathematics teacher, Olga Polovic-Lazovic, who reminded him that mathematics is a universal language.
Returning last term to speak to Ms. Polovic-Lazovic's Year 11 Math Methods and a General Math class, Joseph shared his personal story of discovering a lifelong passion for engineering as a teenager, and a steadfast approach to living life to the fullest.
After graduating in 2018, Joseph studied a Bachelor of Science/Engineering, followed by a Master of Mechatronics, at the University of Melbourne.
Now working as a Data Analyst, Joseph continues to explore his passion for engineering and discovering its many different facets, including robotics, civil engineering and aerospace engineering.
He shared with students that engineering is three things: scientific, creative and practical, leaving them with one of his favourite quotes on the subject: "One man's magic is another man's engineering. Supernatural is a null word." (Robert A. Heinlein)
“It was a real pleasure to visit and support where I could. Returning to Copperfield and having the chance to engage with some of the students was a very rewarding experience. It's exciting to be part of such a community, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to give back.”
Joseph Alkarra
Do you have a story to tell?
Whether you’ve reached career milestones, started your own business, or simply want to share what you’ve been up to, email alumni@copperfieldcollege.vic.edu.au.
You can also follow the school’s alumni program on social media:
Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram
The alumni program at Copperfield College is part of a broader, not-for-profit program called Ourschool that helps public high schools build and grow their alumni communities.