Tertiary graduate real-life stories

Find out how these tertiary trained graduates are getting on with their careers.

Phillip Ozanne is using his management skills in education

Before training as an early childhood teacher, Phillip worked in management and supervisory roles, and he has been able to transfer these skills to his current work.

“There is plenty of room to advance your career whether it's in the management area, which I really enjoy, or in teaching others to become teachers."

Phillip Ozanne, Early Childhood Teacher

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Emily Telfer is doing forestry research with an environmental focus

It is the possible future applications of her work that keep Emily Telfer excited about her job.

"The research that we do is increasingly having an environmental focus. The idea that my research might lead to finding the genes with potential commercial applications, like biodegradable plastics, is exciting."

Emily Telfer, Forestry Scientist

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Mandy Michaelsen is working in HR for a manufacturing company

Mandy found out about human resources (HR) at university while studying for an accounting degree. She decided instead of being a “number cruncher” she would do an HR major. After university, she worked at a polytech as a human resources administrator. Later she became an HR advisor, and is now looking at management.

“I really enjoy working in HR, and I will stay where I am for a while. I may work in business management to see things from another side, and maybe come back to HR.”

Mandy Michaelsen, Human Resources Officer

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Rhys Mudie is a self-employed translator who works from home

Rhys finds being self-employed has its challenges and advantages. The freedom to structure his own work and manage his own time is something he enjoys. There are also advantages in having time for his family.

“If you’re working for yourself you’ve got a deadline and that’s your motivation but if you don’t manage your time correctly then you can find yourself doing everything at the last minute. However, you’re also free to structure your work."

Rhys Mudie, Translator

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Wendy Unkovich is working in public libraries

Wendy Unkovich gained her library qualification by distance learning, while she was a single parent and working in a library. After her training Wendy opted to work in the public library system because she liked meeting a range of people and dealing with a variety of materials.

“Like all librarians I do love books, but I’ve always been a curious person and had an interest in a wide range of things, and that’s what drew me to the work. It doesn’t seem like a job to me.”

Wendy Unkovich, Librarian

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