Kaitlyn De Bono – Class of 2022
I attended Clonard from 2017 to 2022. My fondest memories of Clonard would definitely be my entire Year 12 experience! Acting as Co-College Captain was so rewarding and I love reminiscing about the fun activities we planned as a cohort, from Easter egg hunts to dress-up days. I’ll always be in debt to Ms Driessen and Ms Fish for their guidance throughout my final year – I couldn’t have done it without them! Although it was rarely easy, I enjoyed the challenge of STEM subjects like Biology and Mathematical Methods, as well as Global Politics, which helped me develop critical-thinking skills about events happening all over the world.
Following Year 12, I took a gap year to figure out which career pathway I wanted to pursue, as well as work full-time to save money and travel. This culminated in a trip to Japan in early 2024 – something I had been dreaming about for many years! Towards the end of my personal gap year, Defence had reached out to me offering a position in their own gap year program, which I then decided to accept. From there, it’s been a whirlwind! Since I’ve joined the RAAF, I’ve met people from all across Australia, travelled and lived interstate, and been able to maintain some of the world’s most advanced military aircraft.
Working as a technician re-ignited my passion for the STEM field, and I am now planning to join full-time as an avionics technician, where I will study/train to receive a Certificate IV in Aeroskills (Avionics). Although being away from home can be difficult, the memories I am making are irreplaceable, and I truly feel a sense of pride working in a job that is serving our nation.
