Graduate Opportunities

University attended: The University of Adelaide.

Karen is from Malaysia and came to Australia to complete her undergraduate studies. She holds a bridging visa that permits her to work through the South Australian Food Centre’s Graduate Access Program as a food technologist for Kinkawooka Mussels. She is awaiting a decision on her application for a graduate visa.

Why did you decide to study and work in Australia?

Australia has a great reputation for its tertiary education. Also, Australia is considered geographically closer to home, so my parents were pleased to send me here to pursue my studies. After graduating, I hoped to expand what I had learned and wanted to gain valuable work experience in the well-established food industry in Australia.

How does the SA Food Centre Graduate Access Program help graduates find positions?

The SA Food Centre partners with food businesses and opens avenues to help graduates to have better access to the food industry. It not only encourages SA food businesses to move forward for improvement but also provides constructive supervision for the successful graduate throughout the program.

What are your responsibilities in your current role?

As a food technologist in Kinkawooka Mussels, my main role is to conduct and manage new product development projects. I am also responsible for implementing and constantly improving food safety and quality systems in the company. Additionally, I assess the quality of harvested mussels daily.

As an international student, what challenges did you face when looking for graduate work in Australia?

It would have been great to be part of a graduate program with a big food company for its structured and solid training. However, I was a few points shy on my application for permanent residency and so was excluded from applying for many large programs. Being slightly disadvantaged in that area, I sought advice from the careers service at The University of Adelaide, as well as lectures and recruitment agencies, then applied for other jobs which I was eligible for to increase my chances of employment.

What advice would you give international students wanting to secure work in Australia upon graduation?

International students should be bold and willing to take up challenges that are presented through work opportunities even though this might mean relocating to another town or city. Be open with your options and improve on interviewing skills as you go, despite possible rejection by the first handful of companies you might apply for.