Transitioning from student to professional: Autumn Royal shares her experience
As the economy recovers, attracting and retaining the best graduates will again become a pressing issue for some employers. Therefore, it is helpful to understand the complexities of making the transition from university student to full-time professional, from the student's perspective.
Autumn Royal graduated from Deakin University in 2008 with a Bachelor of Arts (Hons). Utilising her majors in Journalism and Literary Studies, Autumn initially secured a role as an Editorial Assistant for Crown Content after completing her degree. In April 2009, Autumn then secured a role with Penguin Publishing as an Inventory Controller. "As Inventory Controller I am accountable for managing a specific list of titles. My list comprises the United Kingdom Children's Brands and Licensing titles, which include imprints such as Puffin, Warne and Ladybird", said Autumn.
Communication is the most important skill Autumn identifies in her current role. "Communication plays an integral part in my current position and as such I am continuously liaising with Penguin Business Development, Customer Service and representatives from Penguin New Zealand and Penguin United Kingdom", she said.
For a new graduate, the workplace can be confusing and overwhelming. "After university you have to embark on a new set of challenges and it almost feels like you're a first year student all over again", remarked Autumn. "...but after each working week you're sure to develop a knack for what you're doing and whether or not this is a position that you'd still like to hold within the future."
Work experience during university study is a good way for students to prepare for the realities of full-time work. "My biggest recommendation would be to participate in as much work experience as possible. It's so beneficial to become actively involved in as many degree-related activities as possible. I only wish I had completed more work experience, not only to boost my employability, but for my own personal understanding", suggested Autumn.
Autumn utilised a number of career and employment resources such as seek website and MyCareer in the Age. In addition she utilised the resources available on artsHub website (jobs and resources for the Australian creative and arts industries) but found the job search process to be daunting and confusing.
"After about a month without any promising leads, a friend recommended I seek help from Careers and Employment at Deakin University", Autumn commented. "Marcia Macgugan, Careers Counsellor at Deakin University, helped me to structure an appealing resume and pointed out lots of information that I had not ever thought to include. She helped me to gain an insight into the specific details that an employer may look for when assessing an application. I found both of my interviews to be an intimidating and anxious experience and I'd hate to know how I would have performed if I didn't undertake a mock interview with Marcia."
Graduates may have high expectations when entering the workforce. "It's frustrating to know that it may be many years until you even come close to working in an 'ideal' or 'dream' job", Autumn said. "The biggest challenge is actually deciding on and then obtaining an employment position that is going to make you happy in your first few years out of university."
When asked about her working highlights so far, Autumn remarked, "A major highlight was hearing Peter Carey speak at the Penguin Christmas Sales Conference. I also had the curious experience of patting Sonya Hartnett's very well behaved dog when she was visiting the office. I always enjoy Tuesday morning program meetings as it never fails to be an interesting and valuable experience."
