Stepping away from lecture theatres and into a hands-on marketing role, Emily is gaining real-world industry experience while making an impact on the community.
From creating TikToks to designing a user-friendly website, she’s putting her studies into practice at a grassroots initiative that helps migrant and refugee women get their driver’s licenses and even become driving instructors themselves.
This is made possible through La Trobe’s Industry Placement Elective subjects.
When Emily came across a three-month placement opportunity at Whittlesea Community Connections, she knew it was more than just another internship, it was a chance to grow her marketing skills while contributing to a cause she cared about through their DriverEd program.
Reflecting on why she applied for the placement program, Emily said: “I was inspired to do this placement to give me real-life hands-on experience that will relate to my future career and studies.”
In just a few months, Emily has developed a strong understanding of digital marketing, content creation and community engagement, all while learning how social enterprises operate behind the scenes.
“I’ve learned a lot about creating digital content and managing social media, even creating a campaign and understanding the target audience, which are skills that would be essential in the marketing industry.
It’s definitely given me a feel for what full time work will be like”, Emily said.
Emily, a Bachelor of Business student at La Trobe University, completed a rewarding industry placement at Whittlesea Community Connections.
For Emily, the most fulfilling aspect of this experience is seeing the direct impact of her work, whether it’s helping spread awareness through social media or supporting an initiative that empowers women with independence and employment opportunities.
“[The learner drivers] are all coming from refugee backgrounds and finding it hard find a job here and so [this program] has given them that opportunity, which has been nice to see. I’ve never experienced something like this before”, Emily said.
With one year left of her studies, Emily believes this placement has enhanced her learning beyond the classroom and will prepare her for the rest of her degree.
“Being here has helped me apply what I’ve learned and I think this will definitely help me in my next year with my marketing subjects.”
Emily encourages other students to seek out industry placements as it provides an opportunity for growth and development.
“I definitely advise [students] to take an opportunity to gain hands on experience in a real-life scenario and just not be afraid to get outside your comfort zone.
Just apply for these placements because you will learn a lot and it will help you grow both professionally and personally.”
To learn more about the DriverEd Program, visit the Whittlesea Community Connections website.
You can learn more about La Trobe’s Industry Placement Elective subjects here.