Case study

Shanthi is a Business Analyst at JKL

Job pathway

Check-out operator > Bookstore sales assistant >Tutor > Call-centre consultant > Graduate Program roles > Business Analyst

Qualifications

Bachelor of Arts (Information Systems, English and Government & Political Administration)

How did you end up working in your current job?

After university I started on my employer's Graduate Development Program, which is a two-year intensive training and development program. I did four rotations in different parts of the business – I didn't really know what I wanted to do, so it was a great environment to try new things and learn as I went. At the end of it, based on my experiences on the program, and what I'd studied at uni, I took a business analyst role that was on a large-scale systems development project. I've since moved on to other projects, continuing in a Business Analyst (BA) role.

What skills do you use in your job?

Project management, problem solving and analytical skills. Also a lot of 'people' skills such as stakeholder management and communication.

What are some alternative jobs that you would be qualified for?

I would be qualified for any IT graduate position, including a position in programming, support and as a junior systems administrator. Project coordinator/program office type roles or other analytical roles in different field – the skill-set of a BA can be as broad or specific as you want it to be.

" Most firms are looking for graduates with at least a credit average – but not necessarily a D or HD student. Being 'well-rounded' is sometimes more important...."

What do you think it was that got you the job over other applicants?

Willingness to learn and take on new challenges; interpersonal skills.

What advice would you give to students who have commenced a Computer Science degree and want to get a great job when they graduate?

Most firms are looking for graduates with at least a credit average – but not necessarily a D or HD student. Being 'well-rounded' is sometimes more important. Getting work experience while at uni would be really helpful as it would give you an understanding of what you're interested in and good at, and obviously it gives you experience and contacts. Also consider that great IT roles aren't only found in IT companies!

What were your biggest mistakes during your life when applying for jobs? How would you have done it better?

Not preparing enough for interviews – for graduate recruitment they tend to use a lot of behavioural questions which you can prepare well for if you take the time in advance.

What type of activities were you involved in at university and high school, and did they give you any skills that you use in your job now?

Mostly debating and mock trial. I wouldn't say they relate directly, but they help in terms of being able to structure arguments and having confidence speaking publicly. Social skills from clubs at uni don't go astray either.

What was the most surprising thing about working full time in IT that you did not expect?

The number of people working in IT with non-IT backgrounds. And learning that the pessimistic statistics about successful systems projects aren't unrealistic.

If you could go back to the start of your degree and change anything you did since then, what would it be?

I probably wouldn't change anything. I chose my subjects based on what I was interested in (English, French, Politics, Psychology!). About half way through my degree I started a major in Information Systems for its more practical applications. I realised I needed a job at the end of uni! Fortunately I found it to be equally enjoyable. But I'd probably take a longer holiday between university and entering the workforce.

Where do you see yourself in five year's time?

Running my own business using the skills and lessons I've gained in the corporate environment.