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| 31 Jul 2023 | |
| Written by Tianna Kelly | |
| Careers |
What’s On in the Next Few Weeks
From: July 29, 2023 to September 9, 2023
Open Day is the perfect opportunity to find out more about your study options, meet our friendly staff and students, and explore our campuses.
We look forward to welcoming you to our 2023 Open Days.
North Sydney
Saturday 5 August,
10am – 2pm
Strathfield
Saturday 9 September,
10am – 2pm
Charles Sturt | 2023 Open Days
From: July 30 to August 27, 2023
Open Day is back on campus this July and August and we’re excited to show you around!
Open Day is your chance to get to know what we’re all about at Charles Sturt. You’ll get to discover your study options and see what uni life is like – we’re giving you the keys to the campus, so you can make yourself right at home.
There’s something for everyone.
There’s also fun stuff like live entertainment, giveaways, competitions and free food!
Plus, you can explore our expo, info, and career and skills hubs. Chat to our friendly teams about all things Charles Sturt – the support services we offer, early offer programs and even how to boost your hiring potential.
University of Sydney | ARTiculate – Spanish Continuers and Extension: what is next?
July 31, 2023
This interactive ARTiculate Spanish webinar has been designed around the ‘Spanish-speaking communities’ theme of the Spanish Continuers Stage 6 Syllabus. We will explore the Spanish-speaking Communities in different countries through their music, art, literature and film, as well as their relevant position in a global and interconnected world.
In the second part, we will focus on Spanish and Latin American Studies at the University of Sydney, including an overview of study pathways, our curriculum and our partner institutions for study abroad. The webinar will be presented by Dr Raquel Bra Nunez, Visiting Lecturer of Spanish and Latin American Studies, School of Languages and Cultures, University of Sydney.
Sydney Conservatorium of Music | Music Theatre Chorus
July 31 to September 4, 2023
This exciting musical theatre course for students 15-22 years will cover vocal technique, lyrical interpretation, characterization, stage physicality, audition technique and musical theatre ensemble techniques.
Classes will take place weekly and contain a musical theatre ensemble component and a vocal masterclass component, led by industry professional and Conservatorium Music Theatre teacher Rob McDougall. Come and explore the genre of musical theatre in a fun and safe environment. This is the ideal course for students wishing to progress further into their studies of Musical Theatre, or potentially audition for tertiary study in this field.
Weekly lessons will begin with basic ensemble, performance and vocal technique, with the second half of the term aimed at preparing students for a performance.
The class will prepare an end of term concert including a presentation of the repertoire they have worked on over the term.
University of Newcastle | STEM Information Sessions
August 1 to August 3, 2023
Join us online for a series of STEM information sessions at the University of Newcastle.
Gain insights from our esteemed academics surrounding the study experience at our University. Learn about both current and future employment opportunities from our leading industry representatives.
You will also get plenty of time to ask questions to help you on your journey to study with us.
University of Sydney | Nursing at Sydney
August 2, 2023
Nursing is one of Australia’s fastest-growing employment sectors. Our Bachelor of Nursing (Advanced Studies) and double degrees in nursing will prepare you to apply for registration to practice as a nurse in Australia. Join us to learn more about the program, work placements and what a typical student looks like. This session is delivered by current students studying Nursing.
Torrens | Design the Future – Bright Awards Design Competition Workshop
August 2, 2023
In partnership with Adobe, Billy Blue College of Design’s Bright Awards is all about recognising up-and-coming designers and supporting the future of the design and creative technology in high schools across Australia in years 10, 11 and 12. Alongside the kudos, you could win monetary prizes for you and your school.
Join Adobe’s Head of Education Partnerships for 3D & Immersive and Co-Founder of The Rookies, Alwyn Hunt, along with Billy Blue College of Design’s Senior Learning Facilitator, Ivan Kintanar. Together, they will guide you through the Design Thinking steps necessary to prepare your award-winning entry, showcasing an example of a Bright Awards submission. Don’t miss this chance to gain invaluable insights and enhance your chances of success in the competition.
August 3, 2023
Register for our monthly campus tours. You will hear from study experts and current students about popular pathways into university, our unique 6-week terms, courses and student support. We also share information about applying, accepting your offer and enrolling to study.
Let’s show you around campus. We invite you to join us for a campus tour on the first Thursday of each month at 1pm and 3pm local time at our Gold Coast, Lismore or Coffs Harbour campuses. Experience for yourself our world class facilities. Our study experts will also be on hand to walk you through our free, simple application process.
University of Sydney | ARTiculate – PDHPE: Health Equity in Australia Today
August 3, 2023
Although Australia provides ‘universal’ healthcare through the publicly funded Medicare scheme, enormous health disparities exist among and across our population. Clinical services are often unequally available according to the ‘postcode lottery’ of where you were born. Numerous elements contribute to widely divergent health outcomes including sex, race/ethnicity, socioeconomic and migrant status, educational attainment and occupation, access to housing, the build environment and transport infrastructure, legacies of colonialism, and more.
In this seminar, Katherine Kenny, Kellie Burns, Cristyn Davies and Imogen Harper will discuss how health is socially patterned – not just individually achieved or experienced – in ways that systematically advantage some people over others. In addition to cases exploring some of the causes and experiences of inequality, we also highlight how better health equity might be achieved, especially for young people, in Australia today.
August 5, 2023
The University of Wollongong (UOW) Open Day is the perfect opportunity to visit our amazing Wollongong campus, speak with our staff and students, and see why UOW is ranked as one of the best universities for student experience.
Whether you are looking at your next steps after Year 12, or you finished school some time ago and are looking for a pathway into university, Open Day is for you.
August 6 to August 27, 2023
Discover what it’s like to study and live at La Trobe. You can:
August 6 to August 13, 2023
Discover which courses spark your interest and the location or format that works best for you.
Check out your options online and on-demand.
Take a campus tour, listen to live panel sessions with students, alumni and industry experts or watch online.
Register for Open Day at Gold Coast, Northern Rivers, Coffs Harbour, online – or come to them all.
Apprenticeship/Traineeship & Jobs Expos
August 8 to September 12, 2023
Whether you are a student at school looking for a career path, a parent hoping to give your child the best opportunities in life, seeking a career change, or looking for employment, the 2023 Apprenticeship/Traineeship & Jobs Expos have all the answers you need.
This is a fantastic opportunity you won’t receive anywhere else to meet industry experts from a range of interesting fields and learn about the opportunities that exist. Bring copies of your resume and get in first on the road to a rewarding career!
With an expected over 100 exhibitors at each expo who are seeking employees now, if you are serious about securing employment, then these events are not to be missed.
Entry is free and registration is not required.
Newcastle & Hunter – Tuesday 8 August – 3pm to 8pm
NEX – Newcastle Exhibition & Convention Centre
Central Coast – Tuesday 15 August – 3pm to 8pm
Mingara Recreation Club, Tumbi Umbi
Illawarra – Tuesday 22 August – 3pm to 8pm
Illawarra Sports Stadium, Berkeley
South Western Sydney & Macarthur – Tuesday 29 August – 3pm to 8pm
Liverpool Catholic Club, Prestons
Western Sydney – Tuesday 5 September – 3pm to 8pm
Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre Cambridge Park
Sutherland Shire – Tuesday 12 September – 3pm to 8pm
Tradies Gymea
August 8 to August 17, 2023
The electrifying UNSW x National Science Week program illuminates groundbreaking advancements in science, medicine, tech, and engineering. In 2023, learn how to unlock the secret to a happier life and how taking mushrooms can improve your mental health, before meeting the environmental pioneers protecting our native animals, and journeying to the farthest reaches of the cosmos with a trailblazing astronaut (and UNSW alumna!).
August 8, 2023
Preparing for your exchange program is an important part of the process and is vital to continued program success. At these online meetings, an experienced high school exchange advisor will share an overview of high school exchange programs with Southern Cross Cultural Exchange.
You’ll learn more about living with a host family and how studying overseas can help you develop confidence and independence… and gain a lifetime of memories.
University of Sydney | Life of an Marine Scientist
August 9, 2023
Are you passionate about protecting our marine environments and in leading the global efforts to mitigate climate change? Join this session with A/Prof William Figueira from the School of Life and Environmental Sciences to find out how you can embark on a career in marine science. Learn about a day in the life of a marine biologist conducting pivotal research at the University of Sydney’s One Tree Island Research Station.
University of Newcastle | Campus Tours
August 11 to December 8, 2023
Join us on one of our beautiful campuses for a personalised walking tour.
Let our Student Ambassadors show you some of our must-see teaching and learning spaces, their favourite study spots, and of course – where to get the best coffee on campus. Not only will you get a personalised tour, but an opportunity to ask as many questions as you have about what uni life is really like!
Tours are offered across five of our campus locations in Newcastle and the Central Coast.
August 12, 2023
Many of our degrees are co-designed with industry, which means they’re shaped by the latest industry trends. Our double degrees can be personalised – you choose the combination you consider will best kick-start your career. Practical experiences are built into all of our degrees, so you’ll graduate with the knowledge and skills needed to meet the current and future challenges of your profession. You also have the option to undertake many of our degrees on campus or online – or a combination of both.
Join us at Open Day to find out more and check out our awesome campus.
Open Day is an experience made for (YOU)us.
JMC Academy | August Open Day, Sydney
August 12, 2023
Register for our Free Open Day! This is your chance to see our multi-million dollar world-class facilities.
Things to do at Open Day:
Whitehouse Institute | Open House 2023
August 12 to August 26, 2023
Come and join us on campus for Open House this August! Immerse yourself in our vibrant campus atmosphere, explore our exceptional learning environment and meet our welcoming design community.
What you can expect on the day:
Science of Nature Community Open Day
August 12, 2023
Discover how organic farms work with nature to grow food at Sydney City Farm. Learn about urban ecology with free activities for all ages. Biodiversity experts will introduce you to local wildlife and demonstrate how to support biodiversity in urban environments. Aboriginal educators will share cultural knowledge of native plants we can grow and nurture.
Hosted by Sydney City Farm. This initiative is supported by Inspiring Australia as part of National Science Week.
Torrens University | 2023 Open Day
August 12, 2023
Open Day gives you a taste of what we do and how we do it. Meet our academics, talk to current students and tour our campuses. We’re here to help you turn your dream into your career.
August 12, 2023
Join us for SAE Open Day where you’ll have the opportunity to check out the campus facilities, explore study pathways for a career in creative media and get all your questions answered by existing students and industry experts.
University of Sydney | Explore Science in the Museum
August 12 to August 20, 2023
Join us to explore the world of colours in art, various types of film & plastics, liquids in museums and plants. Scientists from Sydney Analytical and the School of Physics from the University of Sydney will be showing live demonstrations of scientific equipment and how different techniques can provide valuable information to museums.
Suitable for ages 12 and up.
August 13, 2023
Discover the courses designed to get you started in game development, 3D animation, film and visual effects at the AIE Open Day on Sun 13 August 2023. This event will be held at AIE Campuses in Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra and Adelaide from 10am to 3pm.
AIE’s Open Day is a great opportunity to meet our teachers, staff and students. The day will cover everything you need to know about the:
AIE’s Open Day will also include presentations on entry requirements and how to apply. Find out how AIE can get you into a creative career.
August 13, 2023
Science in the Scrub is returning to Lizard Log for an exciting day jam-packed full of science, fun and discovery for the whole family.
Unearth your inner scientist with hands-on, family-friendly science experiments and captivating displays. Get up close with native animals, chase giant bubbles, touch the world’s biggest seed, learn bush survival skills or visit the pop-up ocean lab. Say hello to Ginger, the incredible life-sized roaming dinosaur!
Meet real life scientists including geologists, zoologists and marine biologists as you visit over 30 awe-inspiring stalls and activity stations. It’s free to attend with food trucks, picnic areas and live shows – guaranteed science fun for adults and children alike!
Important Future Events
August 19, 2023
Each year, we hold our annual Open Day on campus at AFTRS, focusing on the Bachelor of Arts Screen: Production, Graduate Diploma in Radio and Podcasting, Master of Arts Screen and Master of Arts Screen: Business programs.
Prospective students get to know our lecturers, students, and alumni, attend live chats and panel discussions, participate in exciting hands-on exercises, take an access-all-areas campus tour, settle into a screening of work produced at the School, and get some tips on applications for the upcoming intake.
TAFE NSW | Virtual Open Day 2023
August 24, 2023
Discover all that TAFE NSW has to offer while connecting with experts who can help you make decisions around your future studies. Join us for webinars, browse the exhibition hall and view our on-demand content to learn more about studying with TAFE NSW.
August 26, 2023
We’re excited to announce that registrations for UTS Open Day are now open! Join us on-campus to explore your course and career options available at UTS.
With 100+ info sessions, campus tours, 1-1 chats and workshops on offer, Open Day is the place to get your questions answered.
Scholarships
Understanding industry-specific scholarships
Scholarships are a great way to help you fund your future studies. One type of scholarship that can provide significant help is industry-specific scholarships. These scholarships are often sponsored by companies or organisations within a specific industry and are designed to support students who are interested in pursuing a career in that field. This article will guide you on how to find and apply for these industry-specific scholarships.
Understanding Industry-Specific Scholarships
Industry-specific scholarships are typically offered by organisations or companies within a particular industry. For example, the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences & Engineering has a scholarship program for women interested in a career in renewable energy and sustainability. These scholarships aim to attract and support talented students who can contribute to the industry’s future.
The benefits of industry-specific scholarships extend beyond financial support. They often provide opportunities for mentorship, internships, and networking within the industry, which can be invaluable for your career development.
Finding Industry-Specific Scholarships
Finding industry-specific scholarships requires a proactive approach. Here are some strategies to help you in your search:
Applying for Industry-Specific Scholarships
Once you’ve found a scholarship that aligns with your career interests, the next step is to apply. Each scholarship will have its own application process and criteria, but here are some general tips:
Industry-specific scholarships can provide valuable financial support and open doors to opportunities within your chosen field. By understanding your interests, conducting thorough research, and crafting a compelling application, you can increase your chances of securing a scholarship that will help pave the way for your future career.
Some scholarships you may be interested in:
AIQS Donald Napier Scholarships
Open: July 3, 2023
Closes: October 31, 2023
Value: $5,000 AUD
Open: July 24, 2023
Closes: August 25, 2023
Value: $7,500 AUD per year
WSU Vice-Chancellor’s Leadership Scholarship
Open: June 1, 2023
Closes: November 26, 2023
Value: $10,000 AUD per year
UTS Bachelor of Information Technology Co-operative Scholarship Program
Open: May 1, 2023
Closes: September 3, 2023
Value: $49,500 AUD
Getting Ready for Work
Interested in beauty? Think about these careers as well
If you have a passion for beauty, the world is an exciting canvas full of possibilities. While you might initially think of makeup artistry as the only career option, the beauty industry actually offers a wide range of rewarding and diverse career paths to explore. Whether you’re an aspiring makeup artist or simply someone with an appreciation for beauty, here are some alternative careers that might pique your interest.
Cosmetic Chemist
If you’re intrigued by the science behind skincare products and cosmetics, becoming a cosmetic chemist could be the ideal path for you. Cosmetic chemists play a crucial role in developing and manufacturing beauty products, ensuring they are safe, effective, and aesthetically appealing. This career combines chemistry and creativity, allowing you to innovate and contribute to the beauty industry’s continuous growth.
Aesthetician
As an aesthetician, you would be dedicated to helping people achieve healthy and radiant skin. This profession involves providing personalised skincare treatments, performing facials, and offering beauty advice to clients. Aestheticians work in various settings, such as spas, salons, and dermatology clinics, and have the opportunity to make a positive impact on people’s self-esteem and well-being.
Fashion Stylist
Beauty and fashion often go hand in hand. If you have an eye for style and love putting together outfits, becoming a fashion stylist might be a perfect fit. Fashion stylists work with individuals, models, or celebrities, curating stunning looks for photo shoots, events, and more. This career allows you to showcase your creativity and flair for fashion, helping others feel confident and beautiful.
Dermatologist
A dermatologist is a medical doctor who specialises in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the skin, hair, and nails. If you have a keen interest in both beauty and medicine, becoming a dermatologist could be a fulfilling career choice. Dermatologists not only help patients with medical concerns, but can also assist individuals seeking cosmetic treatments to enhance their appearance and address specific beauty-related issues.
Marketing and Branding
Behind every successful beauty product is a team of marketing and branding professionals. If you have a passion for both beauty and business, a career in marketing and branding within the beauty industry might be a fantastic option. You’ll work on creating campaigns, understanding consumer trends, and developing strategies to promote and elevate brands.
Cosmetic Nurse
As a cosmetic nurse, you would play a vital role in the medical aesthetics field. Working alongside dermatologists and plastic surgeons, you would assist with non-surgical cosmetic procedures such as Botox injections, dermal fillers, and laser treatments. This career allows you to blend your passion for beauty with medical expertise, helping patients enhance their appearance and boost their confidence.
Retail and Sales
Working in retail can be a rewarding experience for those who love interacting with customers and sharing their knowledge. From working at a makeup counter in a department store to managing a boutique, this path allows you to engage with clients directly, recommend products, and help them find the perfect beauty solutions.
Average vs Median Salaries – What’s the Difference?
Often when you read about careers, you’ll see an average salary listed somewhere in the information. While that’s not a bad thing in any way, it can often shape your view of what a job is like. You might make assumptions about:
And you could be making those assumptions based purely off the figure you see in front of you. It’s not the best way to gauge careers that might suit you down the track, and it might not even be all that accurate. Here’s why…
Let’s look at some examples
In November 2022, the Australian Bureau of Statistics published that the average salary in Australia was $1,807 a week, or $93,964 a year.
Which sounds great, right? But the median salary reported in the same period was $1,250 per week, which is around $65,000 per year.
That’s a massive difference of $28,964 per year.
And the chances are if you asked any adults around you what they are earning, the majority would be clustered nearer to the $65,000 mark – so it’s more realistic too.
When you look at reported weekly earnings by industry from the ATO, there’s a big discrepancy between many of the average and median figures:
| Occupation | Average Weekly Earnings $ | Median Weekly Earnings $ |
| Mining | 2,811 | 2,497 |
| Financial & Insurance Services | 2,201 | 1,700 |
| Construction | 1,786 | 1,380 |
| Education & Training | 1,905 | 1,299 |
| Health Care & Social Assistance | 1,763 | 1,150 |
| Arts & Recreation Services | 1,647 | 1,000 |
| Retail Trade | 1,353 | 800 |
Why are the figures so different?
Basically, it all comes down to maths and the way that the figures are calculated.
The ABC have an easy to understand example:
“Imagine there are 10 people in a room: nine of them earn $10,000 a year, and one of them earns $500,000 a year. What’s the average?
Altogether, they earn $590,000 in a year. So the average income in that room would be $59,000 ($590,000 divided by 10 people).”
In this case, the one lucky person who’s earning $500,000 pushed the average way up, but it’s not really a true reflection of what the “average” person is earning.
The median refers to the exact middle of a set of numbers. The first step to calculate the median would be to list all the salaries to be considered in an increasing order, i.e. starting from the lowest to the highest.
If the number of salaries is odd, then the median would be the salary figure in the middle of the list. If the number of salaries is even, the middle two salary figures are added together, and the sum then divided by two to determine the median salary.
So, in the scenario above the median salary would be $10,000, which is much more reflective of what most people in the room are earning.
What this means for you
It means that when you’re looking at potential careers, it’s best to look at median salaries for a more realistic idea of what you could be earning.
There’s no doubt that salary is going to be an important part of your career, but it’s just one aspect. It’s really important when you’re thinking about future careers and career pathways to focus on what you’re good at and what you’ll enjoy doing.
You can find more resources about the world of work on our website here.
Work Experience
Finding relevant and impactful work experience
As a high school student, you’re at a pivotal point in your life where you’re starting to explore potential career paths. One of the most effective ways to do this is through work experience. It provides a real-world context to apply the knowledge you’ve gained in school and helps you develop essential skills for the future. But how do you find work experience that aligns with your interests and career aspirations? We’ll help guide you through the process.
Understanding Your Interests and Career Aspirations
Before you start looking for work experience, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of your interests and career aspirations. Are you a Linker, someone who enjoys connecting people with the resources they need? Or perhaps you’re an Innovator, driven by the desire to create and develop new solutions. Identifying your Career Cluster can provide a valuable starting point for your search.
Researching Opportunities
Now that you have a better idea of what you’re looking for, it’s time to start researching opportunities. You might like to use our Work Experience Database as a starting point for finding placements. You can also look at the websites of companies you’re interested in to see if they offer work experience programs.
Don’t forget to leverage your personal network as well. Teachers, family friends, and even your peers may have connections or suggestions that could lead to work experience opportunities.
Aligning Work Experience with Emerging Trends
As you’re researching opportunities, keep an eye on emerging trends in the job market. Websites like the National Skills Commission can provide valuable insights into the skills that employers are looking for and the job titles that are growing fastest. Choosing work experience that helps you develop these skills can give you a competitive edge when you enter the job market.
Preparing Your Application
Once you’ve found a work experience opportunity that aligns with your interests and career aspirations, it’
