Alexandra El Adam

Third year, Bachelor of Commerce

Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus

'I made sure that I communicate, seek help when needed and let lecturers know that I am interested in what they are teaching'

As a second attempt at uni, I chose to approach my studies quite differently from my previous experience. As a mature-age student who is balancing sophomore year of a Commerce degree and with family and other commitments, I study two units a trimester (including over Summer). I love the flexibility that Deakin’s trimester system offers and always check the timetable to work out which classes are best for my schedule.

Ashamed to say I failed in my previous attempt at Uni so when I returned to Deakin to study Commerce I had an opportunity to really consider where my skills and strength lay and what sort of career I wanted in the future. Completing a Bachelor of Commerce allows me the flexibility to choose majors that I am good at and have an interest in. I’ve decided upon Accounting and Commercial Law as this meets the requirements to complete a Chartered Accountancy Graduate Diploma once I have graduated.

The main downfall of my previous study attempt (apart from not completing the assignments) was a lack of communication. So this time around I made sure that I communicate, seek help when needed and let lecturers know that I am interested in what they are teaching. I spent my first few weeks at uni learning the ropes and attended numerous workshops run by Study Skills on how to use the Library effectively, write essays, referencing and how to study successfully. These sessions were informative and motivational and let you know where to go for help if you need it at any time during your Deakin experience.

From my first trimester at Deakin I was serious about getting a great job and attended a Careers Expo coordinated by Careers and Employment. This opened my eyes to the many programs employers offer to undergrads. I was so keen to get a head start on my career that I applied for cadet roles at the big accountancy firms and accepted a position to begin at Ernst & Young in 2012. As I came close to interview time I used Deakin’s Interview Gold to prepare me for questions that may be asked. I am so appreciative of the support and resources that Deakin offers it students in landing that first job and starting your career.

So in 2012 I moved my family from Torquay to Melbourne and transfer my studies from the picturesque Waurn Ponds Campus to the bustling Burwood Campus - another great benefit of being a Deakin student. I am looking forward to starting my career with a “Big 4” firm and the challenges it will pose as I mix work and study. I know that with Deakin’s flexible approach and me keeping focused on the goal of graduating I can achieve great success.