From Student to Staff: How one graduate turned their extra-curricular into a job.
It’s no doubt that Griffith University is filled with remarkable students. For many of our students, their journey with Griffith doesn’t end when they finish their degree. Some go on to further study, some join our Alumni network, and each year many talented students join our incredible team as Griffith Staff.
After completing a Master of Business Advanced early last year, Babin Joy landed a position with Griffith International as part of the Griffith Mates and has shared his story of hard work, dedication and success with us.
Tell us a bit about your time at university?
“Studying at such a reputable University like Griffith was a huge opportunity for me and I tried to get involved with as many clubs and organisations as possible. Griffith Mates student leaders made a such a positive impact even on my first day at the University. So, I decided to join the Griffith Mates at the earliest I could. The volunteering experience with Griffith Mates has helped me a lot to develop many personal and career-oriented skills.
Majoring in Sports Management, I served as an executive member of the Sports Management Association at Griffith (SMAG). I was a part of the Student Guild Crew assisting with events, completed the Student Leadership Program facilitated by the Welfare and Student Liaison Office, and I was involved with AIME and other community engagement programs.
Apart from University involvement, I was a part of the Mayor’s International Student Ambassador program in 2016 and I worked at the 2018 Commonwealth Games contact centre as a Forerunner.”
How did you land your job working for the university?
“I was very lucky to be offered a position straight after my graduation. A position was vacant and the Student Experience Coordinator asked me whether I was interested in applying for the role. After applying and attending an interview, I received the letter of offer which was one of the greatest moments of my life so far.”
Are you enjoying your role? How was the student to staff transition?
“Yes, the Griffith Mates experience has been a crucial part of my life and has helped me to become the person I am today. Having been a Griffith Mate, I knew the services the program delivered. But I had no idea ‘how’ it was delivered and that is what the major part of my job is about. This learning experience made my student to staff transition equally challenging and enjoyable.”
Do you think that your extra-curricular activities played a role in getting the job?
“Yes, I just had an average GPA, so all these activities played a massive role in helping me to land this position. I would encourage all students to get out there and get involved, you never know where it could lead you.”
As Babin’s story shows, success can arise in many different forms. During your time at university, grasp every opportunity, conversation and volunteering activity – you just never know when it may lead to a job offer!
– Hayley Payne (Bachelor of Public Relations and Communication Graduate)