Development Practice Student and Graduate Profiles

• What was the best thing about your Development Practice program?

The best thing about my degree is the community we've built--pun intended! As someone new entering the field, having limited experience in community development, and especially as an international student, having a community with people who share the same interests and are willing to extend their knowledge and expertise helped me settle into university life abroad. Another good thing about my degree is the fact that it is multidisciplinary and grounded, as seen in the wide selection of courses we are allowed to take.

• What was the most important thing you learnt/or most defining experience, you had while studying Development Practice at UQ?

Probably the importance of dialogue and listening in community/participatory development and stakeholder engagement. Really listening will make you a better development practitioner.

• How did your study help you to get to your current role, and what does your current role involve?

I currently work as a fundraiser for Australia for UNHCR. It is not an easy gig, but as a graduate of Development Practice/Community Development, I feel the need to immerse and educate myself on the refugee crisis and, in a way, do my part in trying to make the lives of refugees a little better. Through my work, given that it requires a lot of interaction with other people, I am able to share my knowledge, share the organisation's cause, and listen and learn from other people regarding their values and opinions on international aid, charities, the responsibilities of governments, and etc.

• What advice would you give to students in the same degree you studied?

Start with your assessments early, take the classes that genuinely interest you, always go to the MDP teas and events, and volunteer when you can!