Deakin international graduates hitting the mark for Victorian employers
Media release
Deakin University’s graduates have made direct and lasting impacts on local companies thanks to the Victorian Government’s International Education Resilience Fund (IERF).
Deakin’s Pro-Vice Chancellor Graduate Employment, Associate Professor Jamie Mustard said the university was pleased to receive funding to support its international students and the Victorian community.
“The higher education sector was hit especially hard by the COVID pandemic with our international students experiencing many challenges,” Associate Professor Mustard said.
“The IERF program was designed specifically to support this student cohort complete their studies and secure employment after graduation.”
Deakin’s ‘Placing International Students in Graduate Roles’ program placed 40 graduates into a range of sectors, including aged care and local councils, in roles that aligned with their discipline. It also ensured each graduate was fully embedded into their workplace.
Sumedh Sawant, who completed his Masters in Professional Accounting and Finance at Deakin, was one of the program’s participants and was thrilled to be given the opportunity to work at Stonnington City Council.
“At the start of the pandemic, I went back to India and did a year of my course online. It was a difficult time so to come back to Australia once I’d finished my masters and be accepted into the program was excellent.”
Sumedh worked with Deakin’s graduate recruitment services team during the application process, while he was onsite at Stonnington City Council, and until his placement finished. Sumedh has secured ongoing work with the council at the conclusion of his placement.
“The program has made such an impact on my long-term career objectives,” Sumedh said.
“I was able to get my foot in the door, was welcomed by my colleagues and being able to work onsite gave me direct experience in the local job market which allowed me to build my connections. It was everything I hoped for.”
The IERF’s support of Victorian universities included funding for their international student welfare and support services, improved delivery of remote and offshore teaching and learning, and increased student engagement programs and events.
