“In my final semester I participated in an internship that led to my first job after graduation, as a marketing assistant at Visit Sunshine Coast. After a year there, I ventured to Tokyo to explore opportunities in Japan-Australia relations (my two home countries).

“In Tokyo, I was fortunate to land a job at Trade and Investment Queensland’s (TIQ) Japan office as a business development officer, working in sectors such as food and agribusiness, international education and natural resources. After a few years, I was offered to pioneer a new position within the Queensland Department of Education International (DEi) representing the Japan market, as part of a new secondment partnership between TIQ and DEi. It was during this time that I found my niche and passion in international education. Later I worked at Study Queensland, the education branch of TIQ, as a Business Development Manager for Japan. And I have recently moved back to Australia, where I have just started my new role with the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) managing the Study Australia Partnership.

“My most challenging – and rewarding – career experience has been leading some of the ministerial missions from Queensland to Japan. I was responsible for the production and execution of the itinerary including meeting arrangements, logistical arrangements, writing ministerial briefs and providing interpretation during the mission.

“I would not have been able to get to where I am without my degree. Not only did my USC degree provide me with a direct pathway into my career through my internship subject, but earning a degree itself boosted my confidence and provided me with a sense of achievement. Moreover, in addition to gaining skills like writing, time-management, and working on a team, I had opportunities to polish presentation skills and interact with teachers and fellow students who later became part of my valuable career network.”