This article was written by Career Ready Ambassador, Tanisha Dua.
Joining the Career Club at La Trobe University with our International Employability Program Coordinator, Swagata (Sandy) Dutta was a game changer for me. Thanks to the hands-on exercises and group workshops, each session was packed with activities that got the students working together. We did everything from mock interviews to resume-building workshops, all designed to give us a real taste of the job market demands. Practising these skills in a low-pressure environment was incredible as mistakes were just part of the learning curve. It felt less like a formal training session and more like teaming up with friends to conquer the job market and prepare for an enjoyable career.
How the Career Club helps international students:
The Career Club hosts a variety of sessions for students from effective communication to job research strategies, equipping us with the right tools to approach the job market and boosting our confidence. Career club has especially been a great learning opportunity for international students like myself. Figuring out job norms in a new country is tough, but the club’s focus on everything from cultural nuances in the workplace to networking knowledge has been a real eye-opener. Thanks to the Career Club, many of us feel more prepared to tackle the global job scene.
There were several sessions held fortnightly in the Bundoora Library such as:
- Tips of interview skills & techniques + practice
- Cover letter, resume & key selection criteria
- Job research strategies- tips of getting connected with industries
- Career planning- unleashing your career opportunities
- Effective communication techniques with the art of networking
As we wrap up the season, we’ve received overwhelmingly positive feedback from students. In our last session, we had the opportunity to interview two participants and their enthusiasm was evident; they couldn’t stop discussing how much they have grown and the skills they have acquired. Given the significant impact these sessions have had on students, I’m hoping that we continue this momentum and plan even more workshops for next year. It’s clear that the career club is making a difference, and it could provide even more students with the opportunity to enhance their employability in a supportive environment.
Keep an eye out for future sessions in Career Hub as we head into the new year!