USQ and local businesses collaborate in student development

Faculty of Business students Carolyn Athanitis (left) and Jazzmin Muller (right).

Students from the University of Southern Queensland's (USQ) Faculty of Business will get insight into local companies in the 2008 Business Boardroom Series.

The first event of the series was held at Heritage Building Society on the evening of Tuesday 22 July 2008.

Faculty of Business Student & Corporate Engagement Coordinator Carmel Cavaye said the series raises student awareness of career opportunities in their local region.

'Recent feedback indicated our students are looking for a practical, relevant, hands-on insight into various companies in the Toowoomba area,' Ms Cavaye said.

'The Business Boardroom Series gives students that opportunity while giving businesses the chance to engage with prospective employees of the future.

'In the past we have found this sort of networking event extremely effective, one of our students has been offered a part time position with a business after she attended an event in May.'

Each event involves students meeting the company leaders, learning about the main functions of the business and touring the facilities.

'Students will also hear from a recent graduate so they can understand the process from someone they can relate to.'

Carolyn Athanitis is studying a Master of Professional Accounting and said she was looking forward to attending the event at Heritage.

'I am particularly interested in attending the event at Heritage,' Ms Athanitis said.

'I'd like to hear more about their approach to business. I've used their business for part of an assignment but no matter how much you read it's your impression that really assists your judgement.'

Ms Athanitis said she believed the event would be worthwhile and registered to attend the second event at McConachie Stedman Accountants on Wednesday, July 23 2008.

'It presents us with an opportunity to get a fly-on-the-wall insight into a business,' she said.

'It's also an opportunity for networking and learning about the culture of the business.'

Media Contact: Jane Urquhart USQ Media +61 7 4631 2559