Graduate Opportunities

University attended: The University of Queensland.

Kate got her event management career on track by undertaking an Events Assistant Internship with the Faculty of Business, Economics and Law at The University of Queensland.

How did you become involved in your undergrad program?

The Faculty of Business, Economics and Law within The University of Queensland has a dedicated Employment Services team. Through the Employment Services Team I found an Events Assistant Internship which was being offered through their internship program. After applying for the internship opportunity I was then asked to attend an interview, where I successfully obtained the position.

What were your responsibilities during your work placement?

My responsibilities during my internship included assisting in the coordination of faculty and university-wide events. I helped develop event proposals and briefing documentation, assisted in the planning and setting up of Faculty-based events and collating information for event evaluations and reviews. I was also able to learn how to use a number of desktop publishing and events software allowing me to help the External Relations team with marketing and communication material.

How do you feel this experience has benefited you?

By completing the internship I was able to experience what being an event manager is really like. Through the hands-on experiences and guidance from the faculty staff I was able to use what I had learnt in my degree and use it in real life situations. I have become much more aware of the importance the External Relations and Events teams have within the university, and a greater understanding into working in a professional team environment.

How has this experience shaped your career plan?

I am now certain that being an event manager and working within the profession is what I would like to do as a career. Prior to applying for this position I was unsure that being an event manager was what I wanted to do as a career, but through the positive learning experiences of my internship I am now certain that I am on the right career path.

Would you recommend other students undertake career-related work experience during their course?

Without a doubt completing the Employment Services Internship Program was the most rewarding experience of my degree and in my career development. Through talking with fellow colleagues and industry representatives, students wanting to gain entry level into the event management field really should have some kind of work experience, as this is highly regarded by employers. By completing the internship program I was able to see how intricate and detailed planning an event is, something I had no idea about when I was completing my degree.