We’d like you to meet some of our students and alumni who have achieved success at university or in their careers. Accounting and finance How Kris achieved CEO status Kris Bondin showed early leadership skills as a student mentor and during his work placements. Since then, he has ‘put himself out there’ and his career has soared. Every opportunity counts Samantha Rodrigues' co-op year gave her valuable skills and landed her a job after graduation. Counting his blessings State Member of Parliament and former Shadow Treasurer, Kim Wells was a VU accounting student almost 40 years ago. Building international connections International business student Michelle Lee Pei Hua has built a global network of connections and friends through VU studies. Building and construction Working in a welding wonderland Tahani Shamroukh took VU's Adult Migrant English Program and discovered a love for welding which led to employment. Prize-winning plumber VU plumbing graduate, Bryce Williamson, is Winner of the 2017 Energy Safe Victoria Award. Engineering VU’s new student accommodation Engineering graduate Emma Buis is lead site engineer on the University’s new student accommodation. Plumbing apprentice one of the world’s best Dylan Di Martino took his skills to the world stage and proved he is one of the world’s best young plumbing apprentices. Business and management How Charles became a leader of change Ready to embark on his own career transformation, Charles Campos decided to focus on managing organisational change. Above and beyond a VU degree International student Janice Ashwin will return to the Solomon Islands with so much more than just a degree. Indian resident turned Melbourne marketer Former VU international student Crispino Santamaria says VU’s Centre for Student Success played a pivotal role in his entry to the Melbourne workforce. Dream come true for Endeavour scholar Winning the Australian Government's prestigious Endeavour Scholarship has been a dream come true for Cambodia's Prasat Sum. How Austin found his true calling Austin Crawley always knew he wanted a career helping people, beginning with a part-time job at a pharmacy in Year 10. But the alignment of some key events helped him find his dream job. Marketing mogul A mere six months after landing her dream job as an executive with Marketing Eye, Samantha Dargan was promoted to marketing manager. Mastering the business of health With a strong background in health and business, Debbie Ruiz’s MBA gives her the edge in her role as revenue manager at Western Health. Indian sports teacher accelerates her passion with VU Neha Jhunjhunwala, physical education teacher and head of the sports department at Cambridge International School in Punjab, India, chose VU to take her career to the next level. Moving up in the world Jen Seymen had always been employed as a supervisor in hospitality before she undertook hospitality studies at VU. There she found the tools she needed to gain employment at a higher level. Capitalising on her studies After first studying education, Jessica Pond returned to university at VU and landed her “dream job”. Projecting success Sarah Oleksiuk’s determination to become a successful project manager is winning her awards and admiration. Making the move to management After completing a VU bachelor degree, Sally Cheung returned for industry-relevant postgraduate study. Culture and arts A storyteller finds her path Aboriginal cultural educator and actor Nathalie McLean designed a creative way to teach the newest people about the oldest culture. So much more than words: emotional healing through art therapy Dr Anne Riggs is helping to change lives with her research and work exploring how art benefits people recovering from grief and loss. Gaining global perspectives Seizing every challenge available to her, Mary Amon thrived on her international study tour and excelled in her practical placement, leading to her being offered her current full-time position. History in the making VU Arts graduate Olivia Slater (Yamatji/Noongar) is making history as the first Indigenous Australian woman to undertake a PhD at Cambridge University. Party of five Victorian Student Band of the Year, VU’s Party On My Darling are honing their skills at Kindred Studios. Model citizen Achol Arow’s VU journey has helped her find her voice as a political leader and women’s advocate. Future filmmaker on the rise Benjamin Laut has used skills and connections gained at VU to co-found an award-winning film production company. Prize-winning printmaker Quinn Daly discovered her passion for printmaking and gained career direction while studying visual arts at VU. A dream creative writing career Alice Robinson pursued her passion for writing with a PhD and achieved her dream of becoming a novelist and academic. Education and transition Swapping roles from student to lecturer International student Yanri says studying in Australia is the best way to strengthen his knowledge. From the hallways of VU to employment in hospitality Adam Furey has enjoyed regular work placements over the past two years thanks to VU’s strong industry connections. Placements that pay off VU’s extensive practical placements and industry connections took Joshua Le from the classroom into his dream career as an educator. Mastering the art of teaching for the gift of education From a small village in northern Bali, Dodi is studying his Master of Education to one day return to his hometown and teach English. Determined to make a difference Troy Flores fulfilled his dream to become a teacher despite the odds. A flexible education VU student turned VU teacher, Sam Dang followed a flexible pathway from diploma to postgraduate study. Top of the class in Education Benjamin Foster credits VU’s industry links and practical learning opportunities for taking him to his dream job. Support and success A professional athlete-turned-teacher has been named one of the world’s top 50 educators in a $1 million competition. Engineering Building sustainable futures Architectural engineer Sian Willmott used her VU degree and career focus to become a leader in sustainable building design. Engineered to succeed Julien Lepine’s research into transport vehicle vibration at VU caught the eye of University of Cambridge. Building success from the ground up Kav Dassanayake landed a job at one of Victoria's most innovative Government departments after he graduated. Journey to NASA Professor Adrian Stoica’s VU research helped propel him towards becoming one of NASA’s most esteemed engineers. Home away from home Sultan Bin Rubayan received a prestigious scholarship from the Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission to pursue studies in engineering at VU. Prepared for employment in engineering Kim Taylor’s passion for electronics led him to VU. He completed a Masters of Engineering to expand his career options. A head start in electrical engineering VU’s industry links and support services helped engineer Fatima Osman find work before she even graduated. Health sciences A pathway to a dream After escaping the Democratic Republic of Congo's civil war at 16 and spending three years in a refugee camp in Tanzania, Mlisho Karega came to Australia with the dream of becoming a doctor. How Lannie went from early school leaver to university teacher Dr Lannie O’Keefe left school at 15, but has since completed three degrees, including a PhD, and begun an academic career. Gaining momentum in midwifery Emma Heard credits VU's industry connections and placement opportunities for preparing her for a career in midwifery. How Rhian went from high-school adversity to Harvard University From disappointing VCE results to the Ivy League. Nursing success through support Aaron Lethlean overcame personal difficulties through VU’s support to graduate with a degree in nursing. How Ellie's making it in the film industry With a love for the stage and performing, Ellie McEvoy enrolled in a Diploma of Specialised Makeup Services at Victoria University Polytechnic. The back-up plan turned into a job working on the Oscar Nominated Film, Lion. How Nikki became a life-saving CEO Nikki is co-founder and CEO of an organisation that provides first aid training to school students, workplaces and parents. The calm among the crisis Paramedicine student Sarah Maclure’s hands-on training helped prepare her to save lives when she least expected it. From VU student to medical doctor After studying at VU, Sharlyne is reaching her dream of becoming a qualified doctor. How VU helped Stefanie find her career calling Stefanie Riccardi is on the way to achieving her career goals thanks to practical learning in labs and overseas. Dream big, work hard When Wes Clarke didn’t get the ATAR he’d hoped for at the end of Year 12, he didn’t let that stop him from achieving his dream to become a sport scientist. How VU helped Vanesa start a research career – before graduation Vanesa Stojanovska won a prestigious medical research grant. Achieving dreams of a beauty career Sharni Chandler has overcome years of bullying at school to become a prize-winning make-up artist. Hospitality, tourism and event management An indirect path to the ideal career Anthony Renehan’s journey to a career in hospitality took an indirect route. He was already studying another degree when he had a change of mind that altered everything. Taking Victoria to the world Tourism graduate, Susi Miller, combines her work and passion for our State with a dream job at Tourism Victoria. Scholarship to Shanghai Student Hannah Simboro won the only Australian scholarship to attend an international events congress in Shanghai. Information systems and computing Hacking her way to success Through a combination of supportive VU pathways, hard work and hackathon success, Zahra Rezai found her place in the world of IT. Working the dream at Google Through seizing practical experience during her studies, and professional opportunities since, Christine Soriano has landed her dream job at Google. From finance to mobile app developer International student Vinh is living proof that you can never be overqualified, or that a change of career isn’t just a dream. Data star Andrew Hinton's IT pathway has seen him rewarded with a position as a cyber security threat hunter at Telstra. Law and legal services Helping those in need Shavini Kumarawansa overcame personal tragedy to become a successful lawyer, and now uses her expertise to support those who need her help the most. The ethical hand of the Law Lewis Truong follows his legal career dreams around the world, but never leaves home without his most important assets: pride in where he came from and an unwavering sense of justice. A learning journey to law After fleeing the murder of his parents, Burundi refugee Innocent Karabagega has followed a pathway to Bachelor of Laws. The spirit of leadership Celil Kardaslar found confidence as a student during high school debates. Now he finishes his degree ahead of schedule and is embracing every opportunity as an award-winning Law graduate. A creative approach to Law Bol Mathiang used an arts degree to help him transfer into Law at VU. Now, thanks to the support he received during his studies, he’s ready to take the next step towards his goals. How Lucienne is changing the legal landscape Several prestigious awards, nominations and her dream job later, this legal young gun’s never looking back. Achieving his dream Vincent Shin didn't let a violent childhood stop him from realising his dream of becoming a lawyer. A career dream come true Iman Osman dreamed of studying law since childhood. VU’s support programs and practical learning opportunities helped make that a reality. Raising the bar After achieving her position at a top tier law firm, Christie Jones is taking on fresh challenges – as a barrister, law student mentor and parent to two children. A league of her own As the youngest of three siblings to study law at VU, multi award-winning alumnus Amanda McDermott is leading the way in her career. Set for success Studying law thanks to two prestigious scholarships, Joseph Hafoka is finding success through VU’s new First Year Model. Pathway to a legal passion Marco Man’s diverse study pathway has led him from VCE to a Bachelor of Laws. Marketing and communications Discovering digital media Returning to study in her twenties, Kelsie Cafarella found her career calling thanks to VU’s industry connections, internship opportunities and supportive teaching staff. Follow your dreams Building on a background in communications, Kuhan Supramaniam came to Victoria University (VU) to expand his skill set in digital media. The happiest job on earth With the kick-start of a Bachelor of Business from VU, Beck Reeves now works as Marketing Manager at Walt Disney Company Australia. Designing his future International student Seun Omolewa is determined to bring his passion for filmmaking to life. Making it in marketing After completing his masters degree in business marketing, Sebastian Au landed a job at his dream company, L'Oreal. Networking for a career in media Kayla McLeod leveraged the University’s industry connections to forge an exciting career in media. Making it in media Muamer Hot gained employment at Starcom MediaVest Group before graduation after completing an internship through VU. Nepalese student making news Postgraduate communication student, Niru Tripathi, has become the first female editor of Nepali Print Media Australia. Science A path of opportunity Kuorwel Kuorwel went from refugee to research scientist with a PhD in chemistry. Finding the right fit at VU After completing two different science-based bachelor degrees at other universities, Yao-Han Lee’s hunt for an interesting honours project took him to VU where he found top marks, supportive teaching staff, and the passion for PhD research. Cancer researcher success William and Elizabeth Fisher Scholarship winner Charlett Giuliani has been awarded the highest Graduate Women Victoria prize for 2015. A pathway to PhD in science Ghofran Al-nasiri was given a chance to achieve her dreams of becoming a researcher through VU’s pathways program. Budding marine scientist Mary Cowling took her interest in the environment to New Zealand to study fur seals. Social sciences and community services How learning in the real world gave James the career edge With an interest in criminal justice, James Dib was drawn to his VU degree due to its practical learning opportunities and strong career prospects. How Zenab made youth work her mission With a long-life desire to help others, VU Youth Work valedictorian Zenab Tewolde found her career calling at Melbourne City Mission. Tales from Indonesia Reflecting on the year that was, VU student Mia Dunphy says she has “grown so much” following her Indonesian study experience. How Eliza went from low ATAR to high achiever Eliza Kandell fought back from a low score to find her career calling in Youth Work. Going global An eye-opening overseas placement in Malaysia ignited Robert Impey’s passion for Community Development. Award-winning community worker Celia Tran was named Premier’s Volunteer of the Year 2016 for her tireless community work. Making global connections Andrew Pascoe completed a placement and year-long residency in Papua New Guinea where he made a widely screened documentary. Success in her first year Olena Nguyen says VU’s First Year Model has made her journey to become a social worker much less stressful. A global community in the classroom Thanks to the rich and diverse learning environment at VU, Angelo Monizjong is getting the most out of his Master of International Community Development. Determination is key to success Leaving high school early didn't stop Fatima Abdul from completing two degrees with VU. Aiming for change Sara Graham, a ‘quiet achiever,’ chose a career close to her heart. Giving back to the community After returning to study as a mature-age student and sole parent, Renee Page forged a career in community services. Sport, recreation and human movement Ninja’s career leaping ahead Ninja Warrior Australia semi-finalist and strength and conditioning coach/educator Kadeem Aarons has his sights set on an exciting future. Mastering her sporting career Sharna Naidu’s placement at Melbourne Victory Football Club helped her gain her current role as their W-League Performance Analyst. Seizing every opportunity Driven by his passion for rugby, Eoin McVeigh is forging a career in London as a performance analyst. A grand slam of a degree Since graduation Shruti has taken a lead role improving sporting culture in her home country, India. A perfect pairing Brooke Muscat's combined degree in sport science and psychological studies has taken her to an exciting role with Western Bulldogs Community Foundation. Sights set on VU Elise Wiggins worked hard to get into VU, citing its sporting facilities and industry partnerships as major draw cards. Sisters making it in sport rehabilitation Sisters Bianca and Rosemarie Michetti followed pathways from TAFE to postgraduate study. Creating a benchmark in sport integrity Lorcan Mathews is working with the next generation of local footballers as Melbourne Victory Academy’s U15 Team Manager. Transport and logistics Supply and apply Maree Stuart completed her masters as an investment in her supply chain and management career. Community champion Deepak Vinayak's work as a multicultural community champion earned him a 2018 Pride of Australia medal. Opening doors to a career in logistics VU graduate and current masters student Bart Phaosihavong finds that education is a pathway to new career opportunities. Staying ahead of the logistics game Eric Law developed the practical and theoretical skill set to kick-start a successful career in the logistics industry. Holden the fundamentals for success With the support and guidance of VU, Blake Dutta has forged himself a place alongside GM Holden’s senior leadership team. Scholarship paves way Former David Hay Scholarship recipient Leanne Bradford has quickly progressed in her logistics career.
