Aldrich Kartadinata | Class of 2025

For Aldrich Kartadinata, public speaking was about much more than standing in front of an audience. It became an opportunity to overcome fears, build confidence and create meaningful connections with others.

A member of MacKillop House and a graduate of the Class of 2025, Aldrich looks back fondly on the opportunities he was given during his time at Corpus Christi College, particularly his involvement in the College's Public Speaking program.

One of his favourite memories was not competing himself, but helping others find their voice.

'A fond memory of mine was the opportunity to coach former Year 8 and 9 students in Public Speaking, teaching them to speak with passion and confidence,' he said.

'I enjoyed coming to coach every week, on days that were fun and others that were hard. Every week was a new experience where the coach and students learned so much from each other.'

Aldrich also credits his teachers for helping shape his journey.

'I absolutely loved my Religion and Life ATAR teacher in Year 11,' he said.

'She was my inspiration for trying new things and helped me set a path for constantly striving forward.'

The opportunities that come from public speaking

Public speaking played a significant role in Aldrich's time at Corpus and opened the door to experiences he may not otherwise have encountered.

'Public speaking opened so many doors to new experiences, such as overcoming fears, meeting new faces, going to new places and making new memories that I would have missed if not for joining.'

Like many students, speaking confidently did not come naturally at first.

'Talking to people was something I was never good at growing up, but participating in public speaking events strengthened my ability to speak eloquently and think fluidly.'

One of Aldrich's most memorable moments came during his very first school competition in Year 7.

'A memorable success takes me back to my first school competition in Year 7, where I took home a runner-up trophy in my heat,' he said.

'I was extremely nervous and never imagined I would win something in my first competition.'

Life after Corpus

Since graduating, Aldrich has continued his learning journey at Curtin University, where he is currently studying a Bachelor of Psychology.

'I enjoy every part of learning, meeting new people and transitioning from school to uni life,' he said.

The communication skills he developed through public speaking continue to play an important role in his studies and personal growth.

'Communication and public speaking skills have helped me reach even more places after graduating. I have been able to talk with many inspirational people using my skills and strengthened my mental focus in my degree.'

Reflections and advice

Looking back, Aldrich believes one of the most valuable lessons he learned through public speaking was the importance of understanding and connecting with people.

'I developed a very valuable habit of getting to know people in public speaking,' he said.

'As a student, I would listen to what everyone had to say and how they spoke. As a coach, I would come to understand my students by understanding why they spoke about things in their own way.'

For students preparing for this year's Public Speaking Competition, Aldrich encourages them to speak from the heart.

'Don't let the mind do all the thinking, and the mouth do all the speaking. Leave some for the heart, for what comes out is what comes from inside.'

For students who feel nervous about speaking in front of others, he offers a unique perspective.

'A Granny Smith apple tastes very sour, but when baked in a pie, it becomes a delicious dessert,' he said.

'Likewise, nervousness is a sour feeling, but in the heat of your speech, it becomes a delicious talk.'

Looking ahead

As he continues his studies, Aldrich hopes to pursue a Masters degree in Psychology and continue embracing new opportunities along the way.

'More importantly, I hope to meet new people, and make new memories and experiences throughout my life.'

His story is a reminder that public speaking is about more than developing confidence on stage. It is about building connections, embracing new experiences and finding the courage to share your voice.

'Don't let the mind do all the thinking, and the mouth do all the speaking. Leave some for the heart, for what comes out is what comes from inside.' – Aldrich Kartadinata, Class of 2025.