Careers Spotlight @ SSC

Work Experience

Over the past couple of months, we have had a number of students go out on work experience. Below are the reflections of three students:

During the first week of term I was fortunate enough to be able to complete work experience within a creative visual production company who were working on a collaboration with Luna Park. I worked as an intern on the set and was able to learn a lot through the expertise of the other professionals e.g. camera crew, set design, directors, costume designers and the sound crew. It was a very exciting and educational experience that helped me gain insight into the industry.
Leia Kim
Year 10

Last term I spent a week doing work experience with the NSW Police Band. Along with 11 other students from all different schools, I got to experience what it is like to be a full-time musician in a prestigious band. During the week, we sat in rehearsals with the concert band and big band as well as a performance at a primary school where we played kids’ tunes and did instrument demonstrations for the primary school kids. We concluded the week by holding a concert for family and friends showcasing all the new repertoire and skills we learnt. I very much enjoyed the experience throughout the week and I got to meet new people and learn from skilled players who showed me what it was like to be a professional musician.
Monika Zhou
Year 10

Attending a day of work experience at Westpac Bank in the finance sector was an eye-opening and enriching experience that provided me with valuable insights into the intricacies of the banking industry. From the moment I stepped into the bustling environment of the bank, I was immersed in a world of financial transactions, customer interactions, and collaborative teamwork that highlighted the multifaceted nature of the finance sector.

Meeting with individuals in various roles within the finance division during my work experience at Westpac Bank provided me with a comprehensive view of how different functions collaborate to ensure the institution’s financial well-being. Each interaction gave me valuable insights into the distinct responsibilities and contributions of roles such as the Financial Controller, Financial Manager, Performance Manager, and Data Analyst.

The fast-paced and dynamic nature of the banking environment was also apparent throughout the day. I observed how employees adeptly balanced multiple tasks and adapted to changing circumstances. This agility showcased the importance of being able to work under pressure and make quick, informed decisions—a skill that is undoubtedly crucial in the finance sector, where market conditions and client needs can change rapidly.

Overall, my day of work experience at Westpac Bank left me with a profound appreciation for the complexities of the finance sector. It highlighted the importance of a holistic skill set encompassing technical knowledge, communication abilities, attention to detail, adaptability, and a customer-centric approach. This experience has not only deepened my interest in pursuing a career in finance but has also equipped me with valuable insights that will undoubtedly influence my academic and professional endeavours moving forward.
Tamanna Anand
Year 12

Upcoming Careers Events

Sydney Design School Open Day – 28 October. Register here.

Careers in the clean energy sector – hear from two women working in the industry in this online webinar. 30 October 5pm. Register here.

USYD Early Childhood Degree webinar – 1 November 4pm. Register here.

USYD Pathways to Law webinar – 1 November 5pm. Register here.

USYD Exercise and Sport Science – 8 November 4pm. Register here.

USYD Why Study Business at Sydney – 8 November 5pm. Register here.

Free HSC Workshops for Year 11 – Macquarie University 5 November and UTS 12 November. Register here.

UNSW Portfolio Entry Workshop for current Year 12 students – face to face 14 November, register here. Online 15 November, register here.

Academy of Interactive Entertainment Open Day – 18 November. Register here.

Scholarships

Macquarie University Faculty of Science and Engineering Sustainability Scholarship – $5000 per year for high achieving students in Science, Engineering and IT degrees who have the potential to make a positive impact towards the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Applications close 19 November. Apply here.

Eva Guirguis
Head of Future Pathways & Partnerships | HSIE Teacher