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Graduate recruits more students into jobs
For Chloe Ryan of Diddillibah, the transition from studying at the University of the Sunshine Coast to working a full-time job was so smooth she didn’t move.
Chloe, 23, now comes to the Sippy Downs campus every day to work at the USC Innovation Centre as its first Recruitment and Talent Manager.
The graduate of a double degree in Arts (Psychology) and Business (Human Resources) is helping more of the University’s 8,000 students take advantage of the business opportunities on offer at the centre.
The Innovation Centre mentors the start-up and growth of knowledge-based businesses based locally, across the Sunshine Coast and beyond. It currently has 33 client businesses and runs extensive business enterprise programs.
The focus is on technologies in sectors such as information, communication, creativity, health and clean energies.
“There are great opportunities for USC students in our client companies, from work experience and internships to part-time and full-time jobs,” said Chloe.
“These positions can help students become ‘job-ready’, which is what employers are looking for more than anything.
“The businesses gain an effective, intelligent, motivated resource. Students can put fresh, up-to-date knowledge into practice in the workplace.”
Chloe said she loved the diversity of her role implementing the Uni Connect program, such as encouraging USC students to network with business leaders.
“I particularly enjoy the Human Resources side after studying it,” she said.
“For the 60,000 students predicted to graduate from this University in the next two decades, there needs to be more openings for local, high-quality careers.
“As the Innovation Centre grows, I have the chance to help students gain a competitive advantage in these knowledge-based industries.”
– Julie Gatehouse