Graduate Profile - Bachelor of Behavioural Science

Name: Emma Gloyn
Degree Awarded: Bachelor of Behavioural Science
Position Gained: Federal Public Servant
Employer: Department of Defence
Commencement Date: 10 February 2001

Could you give us a description of what your position involves?

I am currently working in a Ministerial area for the Department of Defence. This involves coordinating responses to questions asked by Senators, producing the Defence Annual Report, Portfolio Budget Statements and Additional Estimate Statements.

Have the skills you developed at university been an important part of your job? (Have you, or are you planning to undertake further study?)

The skills I developed at University have been important in gaining a position within the department as well as in my current position. The time management skills I developed at University are essential in this position, as are communication and liaison skills.

I am currently under taking a Graduate Diploma in Management Studies

With your experiences in securing employment what advice would you give to students who are in their first, second, and final year of study?

Study something you enjoy, that way you will have a positive view of study and learning, which always goes down well with potential employers who will look for someone who is willing to learn and is enthusiastic about what they do.

Many employers presenting employment information sessions have commented on the importance of students undertaking extra curricular activities during their time at university. Could you comment on this?

Work-life balance is becoming increasingly important in the workplace. Employers are looking for people who will be able to perform when required and have a balanced outlook on life.

How did you go about finding graduate employment?

Though an advertisement in The Advertiser newspaper

Can you briefly describe the application process relevant to your position?

To gain entry to the graduate program there was a written application, then short listing, 2 written referee reports then needed to be provided, further shortlisting, then there was an assessment centre which involved an interview, aptitude tests and group discussion work.
In the interview I had as part of the assessment centre I was mainly asked questions relating to the information I had provided in my application. I was also asked why I wanted to join Defence.

Do you have any further helpful hints for graduates?

Communication and social skills are exceptionally important, your grades illustrate that you have subject knowledge and can apply yourself, however this will not be enough to get you a job. Employers are looking for people that are willing to learn, are good communicators and are enthusiastic. Sell yourself in a positive but not pompous way.