Where Are They Now?

This year we're celebrating our past students who have gone on to bigger and better things! In each issue, an ex VUSC student will give our school community an insight into their journey out of secondary schooling and into their chosen pathway. 

If you are a past student, or know of a past student who would be willing to share their journey, please email kristy.muratore@education.vic.gov.au.

Chandu Senevirathna

Graduated: 2016       Age: 27

Area of study: Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering, Bachelor of Business Management

Can you describe your study/career journey so far?

I attended VUSC from Years 10–12, starting in 2014 and graduating in 2016. I absolutely loved my time at VUSC and made many great memories throughout my schooling. From a young age, I always wanted to become an engineer, so after graduating from VUSC I went on to study Mechanical Engineering and Business Management at RMIT University.

During my time at university, I developed strong technical and problem-solving skills while also gaining an understanding of leadership, management and business operations. I completed both degrees in 2022, which was a significant milestone in my academic journey and helped prepare me for the next stage of my career.

How did you become interested in your career pathway and what were your motivations for pursuing this career?

From a young age, I always dreamed of joining the Australian Defence Force. After completing university, I applied to the ADF and after a year-long application process, I was thrilled to learn that I had been accepted into the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) as an Armament Engineer. 

My motivation for pursuing this career came from a combination of family influence and personal interests. My grandfather served in the Sri Lankan Army and often spoke positively about his experiences, the importance of service, patriotism, and leaving a meaningful legacy. Hearing his stories gave me a strong appreciation for serving something bigger than myself and also made me very proud to be Australian. 

At the same time, I had always wanted to become an engineer. I loved mathematics and problem-solving throughout school, and one of the teachers who had a significant impact on me was Mr Ray Lawicki. He encouraged my interest in engineering and inspired me to pursue a career that combined logical thinking, technical problem-solving, and mathematics. The opportunity to join the RAAF as an engineer was the perfect combination of both passions; serving my country while working in a challenging and rewarding engineering role.

What did you do whilst at secondary school to prepare for your chosen career pathway? (e.g. VCE subjects, expos, work experience)

While I was at VUSC, I knew it was important to give 100% effort in everything I did and to listen to my teachers and school principal, who had a wealth of experience and knowledge to share. I understood that if I worked hard and applied myself, I would never look back and wonder, "What if?" or regret not trying my best. 

I wasn't what you would call a “gifted” student. To achieve the results I wanted, I had to work extremely hard and stay disciplined. I studied every day and put a lot of effort into preparing for my SACs and exams to achieve the ATAR needed for my university pathway. Looking back, I believe one of the biggest reasons for my success was my work ethic. VUSC taught me the importance of perseverance, consistency and resilience. Those habits not only helped me get into university but have continued to help me throughout my engineering studies and my career in the Royal Australian Air Force.

What advice do you have for other students who are interested in pursuing your career pathway?

My advice would be to start researching your options as early as possible and understand the prerequisites for the university degree or career pathway you are interested in. Engineering is a very broad field, with many different specialisations such as mechanical, chemical, aerospace, electrical and civil engineering. Take the time to explore each area and find out which one interests you the most. Once you have a clear goal in mind, you can begin working towards it. 

Don't be afraid to ask for help from your teachers, mentors, friends, or family along the way. No one achieves success alone, and there is always something to learn from those around you. Most importantly, be prepared to put in the effort. Anything worthwhile takes hard work, dedication and persistence. There will be challenges along the way, but if you stay focused on your goals and keep working towards them, the results will be worth it in the end. I wasn't the smartest student in the room, but I was willing to work hard, and that made all the difference.