Alumni Spotlight: Cici Zhang – Class of 2022
- Mercy Stories
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Meet Cici, a graduate of the Class of 2022, who has taken a bold step by joining the Royal Australian Navy.
What are you doing now? Tell us about your job or studies and your journey since graduating:
After graduating from OLMC, I joined the Royal Australian Navy as a chef.
How did your time at Our Lady of Mercy College shape your career or studies? Were there any teachers, subjects, or programs that inspired you?
I remember a couple of Australian Defence personnel visiting the school and talking to us about what they do. Mr Dale Briers also helped me with filling in the application to join the Royal Australian Navy.
What is a memorable moment from your time at Our Lady of Mercy College?
One of the most memorable moments of receiving support at school was during a particularly tough time when I was struggling to keep up with my assignments and feeling completely overwhelmed.
What lessons or values from your time at the College do you still carry with you?
The support I received from my teachers at school helped me carry the value of compassion with me long after I left OLMC. Their patience, understanding, and willingness to listen when I was going through difficult times showed me the true impact of caring for others.
If you could give advice to a student at Our Lady of Mercy College about preparing for life after high school, what would it be?
My biggest advice is to never be afraid to ask for help when you need it, whether it’s from your teachers, friends, or counsellors. Get involved in things that interest you, even if they feel out of your comfort zone, because that’s where growth happens.
What has been the biggest challenge since leaving school, and how have you handled it?
The biggest challenge I faced was adjusting to the sudden independence and responsibility that came with life beyond the structured school environment. But the Navy gave me purpose, discipline, and a strong sense of belonging. The transition wasn’t easy, but the training and camaraderie helped me grow both mentally and physically.
Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?
In the next 5 years, I see myself going through NEOC, studying at university, and commissioning as a Maritime Human Resource Officer in the Royal Australian Navy.
We wish Cici all the best in her future endeavours.
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Come to our Anniversary Reunion
In just 10 years, our Mercy Campus has grown into a vibrant and connected community.
To celebrate, we’re marking 10 years of the Mercy Campus with a special Anniversary Celebration and Reunion.
When: Saturday, 9 August 2025
Time: 4.00-7.00pm
Where: Xavier Read Gymnasium
Who’s invited:
- Graduating students (2015–2024) and their families - Ex and current staff
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