October 2022
After a successful inaugural intake in 2021, applications are now open for the next round of entrants to the Alumni-only Graduate Employment Program offered by the University of Southern Queensland.
The Graduate Employment Program offers an opportunity to transition from education to employment and/or further study or research with the University.
Launched in August 2021, the program has five University of Southern Queensland Alumni in either full-time or part-time capacity working as Associate Evaluation Officers in the Academic Quality Unit. Evaluation Coordinator, Emily Montgomery supervises and mentors the Graduates. Emily explained the benefits of the program:
“It’s been incredibly exciting to see such a diverse group of Alumni come to the program with such varied professional and educational backgrounds, yet all gaining the same amount of value from being part of the one team,” she said.
“It’s one of the most important elements for potential new members of the Graduate Employment Program to be aware of, that regardless of your discipline, if you are passionate about being part of a team that is committed to creating and sharing knowledge, transforming lives and solving the problems that matter to our world, then this is the place for you.”
For Associate Evaluation Officer Jessica Staheli, based at the University’s Springfield campus, being part of the Graduate Program has offered her a new insight into how a tertiary institution works – and learnt valuable skills to help her achieve her career ambition of working in the book publishing industry.
“Elements such as meeting hard deadlines and deliverables and really honing my communication skills have been invaluable to me personally and professionally,” Jessica said.
“I’d recommend this employment avenue to anyone looking for a unique opportunity as they work towards building their career.”
PhD student Thanveer Shaik is based at the Toowoomba campus as an Associate Evaluation Officer and is utilising his skills in data analytics and Artificial Intelligence in his Graduate Program role.
“I’m finding it very interesting to apply my knowledge in a different way and in a sector that really appreciates my skill set, too,” Thanveer said.
“My PhD studies continue for some time, but I feel like the insights and learnings I’ve been offered in this role with the Academic Quality Unit will be very helpful in the future should I wish to pursue an academic career.”
Professor Lyn Alderman, Dean (Academic Transformation) said applicants are eligible for the positions if they hold a Bachelor or Postgraduate degree from the University of Southern Queensland and have graduated in the last five years.
“The Academic Quality Unit plays a critical role in the development and implementation of University-wide initiatives with the goals of strengthening education quality, learning and teaching, digital innovation and the student experience,” Professor Alderman said.
“As part of the team, successful candidates will be conducting a range of daily activities such as reporting, conducting research and evaluations. The positions support evidence-based decision making about the curriculum offered at USQ, so it’s incredibly important and interesting work.”
Professor Alderman said the pilot program is a commitment to UniSQ graduates, and an investment in the future of the University and the wider community in the regions it serves.
Recruitment for the next intake for the program will be open in October.
The positions can be based in Toowoomba or Springfield.
For further information, register for an information webinar or to apply, please visit UniSQ Graduate Employment Program website.
