Graduate story: Claire Mortimer

Claire Mortimer
Conference and Event Coordinator
Crowne Plaza, Canberra
Bachelor of Business in Convention and Event Management

I moved away from my home in Canberra to study at Southern Cross University because it has the best tourism degrees and a strong reputation in the industry.

A real bonus is that the University offers business studies within their tourism degrees. This wide course material has given me a competitive edge in the workplace as I have a greater understanding of the whole business concept – not only how it relates to my work role, but also in a global context.

The knowledge I have gained through my studies has enabled me to take on varying projects such as marketing, yearly budgets and departmental assignments with ease.

When I applied for my current position, I was competing against 15 other applicants. I was able to demonstrate my industry skills and theory-based knowledge with various university assignments from my event and business units. I was able to express myself confidently with three years of university preparation backing me. Without my academic advantage, I would not have been able secure this position so quickly.

Southern Cross University has three campuses to choose from; it boasts flexibility. I was able to study for two years at the Lismore campus, six months at the Tweed and then the remaining six months in Canberra completing my internship.

The variety in the course units gave me the ability to choose units that strengthened my particular interest, which was tourism event management.

The lecturers made my degree an experience of a lifetime. They always made time for me, often meeting with me outside of tutorial sessions to discuss my ideas and theories. They were always open to discuss my professional development and future employment opportunities. I am so glad I chose to study at Southern Cross University.

Updated: 03 May 2013