This week, I had the enriching opportunity to speak with Vedha Dhuri from Deakin TALENT, Deakin University‘s innovative career development service. Vedha, with her extensive experience in career development and unique insights as a former international student, shared valuable perspectives on the evolving workforce and practical advice for students.
đź“ŤQ: With over a decade of experience in career development, what are some of the most significant changes you’ve observed in the workforce?
Vedha: Having worked across different universities, I’ve seen notable shifts in opportunities for graduates. There’s a greater appreciation now for what international students contribute, including the diverse perspectives they bring to roles. Importantly, international students should not wait until graduation to seek professional roles. I encourage them to look for contract work and utilize semester breaks for full-time employment to gain practical experience.
đź“ŤQ: From your extensive experience, what are the top three skills every student should develop before graduating, and why?
Vedha:
“First, communication is key; it’s not just about vocabulary but also confidence, body language, and active listening.
Second, networking is crucial; it’s about finding a balance between introversion and extroversion, as many opportunities come through personal connections.
Finally, patience and keeping a broad mindset help as it opens more doors and allows you to explore opportunities beyond your immediate environment.”
đź“ŤQ: What university resources do you recommend students leverage more often to enhance their employability?
Vedha: “At Deakin, students should utilize DeakinTalent, which offers resume templates, workshops, and job portals. Start engaging with these resources from your first year using a stepping stone model—part-time work in the first year, internships in the second, and aiming for graduate roles by the third. Additionally, international students should connect with their university’s career development teams and platforms like Study Melbourne which provide extensive support and networking opportunities.”
đź“ŤQ: One message for the world?
Vedha: “Trust in yourself and your abilities. You’ve got what it takes. Keep going, don’t quit.”
✨ Here are my key takeaways from this coversation:
Vedha highlights the evolving recognition of international students in the job market, encouraging them to seize opportunities early. By advocating for international students to engage with the workforce before graduation, she underscores the importance of gaining practical experience and leveraging their unique backgrounds to enhance their career trajectories. This proactive approach not only accelerates professional development but also enriches the local workforce with diverse perspectives.
