Persistence pays
by Gemmie Alliston
After
nine rejection letters from government graduate programs, I was
starting to get discouraged. Nearing the end of my Bachelor of Arts
(International Studies)/Bachelor of Arts (Journalism), I realised I
may have to consider the possibility of not receiving any offers and
started to look at other options.
To my surprise, within the space of a few days I had received an offer from Centrelink to work in their publications and marketing department, and a second offer from the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations to work as a policy officer.
While trying to decide between these two offers I was offered a position at the Attorney-General’s Department, which I quickly decided to accept.The position would give me the chance to work on policy areas I had long been passionate about, such as international family law, native title and security, just to name a few.
Since that decision my life has been a whirlwind of activity. I have moved to Canberra, found a place to live and am getting used to driving through the never-ending roundabouts in the ACT. I have also been in touch with my "buddy", who was a graduate last year and will be supporting me throughout the year.
During the time I spent at UniSA I was constantly pushed to try new things and reach for what seemed impossible to achieve.
To anyone completing their degree at the end of this year I would recommend taking full advantage of the resources you have around you at UniSA, especially lecturers, tutors and your program director.
In my final year I found that these people were even more willing than before to help me become job ready. I would also suggest to apply for any job you are interested in, even if you think you have no chance of being selected.
During the four years spent at UniSA I not only expanded my
knowledge and academic ability but feel I learnt the life skills
that will enable me to
be successful in my new position, no matter what is thrown my way.