Curiosity, Conversation and Career Discovery: MMS and The Smith Family Inspire Future Pathways

On Tuesday 19 May 2026, Melbourne Medical School (MMS) management team and faculty colleagues joined students at Woodmans Hill Secondary College for a careers event delivered in partnership with The Smith Family, creating opportunities for young people to explore future study and career pathways in a fun, interactive and engaging way.

The Smith Family is a national not-for-profit charity dedicated to helping young Australians succeed through education. This event marked the second collaboration between MMS and The Smith Family, continuing a shared commitment to supporting students as they consider their future aspirations.

Pictured: Melbourne Medical School management team and faculty colleagues with The Smith Family team and Woodmans Hill Secondary College staff.

Across two sessions, students stepped into an interactive experience designed to get them talking, thinking and asking questions about their futures. A lively game of bingo helped break the ice, creating an energetic atmosphere and encouraging students and staff to connect before the career conversations began.

Building on the energy of the opening activity, students moved through a series of creatively themed tables including Navigating Numbers (Finance), The Word Weavers (Communications), Space Movers and Shakers (Facilities and Infrastructure), and Leadership League (General Management). Each table represented a different professional area across the University, offering students a glimpse into the diverse careers and expertise that help keep a large and complex organisation running.

Pictured: Melbourne Medical School staff Kathryn Briggs and Janine Sala at the "Navigating Numbers" finance activity.

At the heart of the experience was a collection of custom-designed resources created to spark curiosity and keep conversations flowing. From themed question cards to tailored discussion prompts, each activity encouraged students to ask questions, share ideas and learn more about the people behind the roles.

Some questions were practical, while others invited reflection and curiosity. From discussing first jobs and memorable career moments to exploring challenges, achievements and skills developed outside the workplace, the conversations encouraged students to think beyond job titles and consider the experiences that shape a career. What began as simple prompts quickly evolved into meaningful conversations, helping students connect with the people behind the roles and reflect on their own interests, strengths and aspirations.

Pictured: Career snapshot cards and take-home resources for students.

Students also received a collection of take-home resources designed to continue the conversation beyond the event itself. Career snapshot cards offered insights into different professional areas, providing students with practical examples of the many pathways and opportunities available through education and employment.

For Melbourne Medical School staff, the event was equally rewarding. Many participants reflected on the value of contributing to a meaningful initiative and were inspired by the enthusiasm, confidence and engagement shown by students throughout the day.

As conversations wrapped up and students headed back to class, they left with more than just information about careers. They left with new questions, fresh perspectives and a greater understanding that there are many different pathways to achieving their goals.

Melbourne Medical School extends its thanks to The Smith Family and Woodmans Hill Secondary College for the opportunity to be part of such a valuable initiative and looks forward to continuing this partnership in the future.