Ms Maria Harris, an external business student, paid a visit to the Mackay campus recently to speak to students about the vast array of career opportunities for graduates in the resources sector.

Ms Harris, who is currently completing the final-year of her Bachelor of Business (Accounting) degree externally, is employed as Mine Accountant at BMA’s Goonyella Riverside Mine.

Ms Jo Luck, Sub-Dean of the Faculty of Business & Law at CQU Mackay, said the career presentation gave students valuable information on the wide variety of roles on offer, particularly in the resources sector.

According to Ms Luck, CQU business students studying degrees in accounting, human resources, marketing and management are highly sought after in the [Mackay and Bowen Basin] region.

“Demand for CQU graduates from Mackay campus is increasing, with many students, choosing to take up employment offers prior to the completion of their degrees,” said Ms Luck.

“It is good to see that the [Mackay and Bowen Basin] region is continuing to grow, which enables students from Mackay who want to live and work here in their chosen field, to do so.”.

During her presentation Maria was able to offer some insights into what employers are seeking.

“It is not just about students having the knowledge and skills of their discipline. It is also important that students have good communication and interpersonal skills,” said Ms Luck.

“Employers are looking for the well-rounded graduate.”.

As well as telling her career story so far, Maria gave students hot tips for career success and avenues for entering the resources sector.

“These career tips were greatly appreciated by the students,” said Ms Luck.

The presentation was followed by a farewell function hosted by CQU Faculty of Business & Law staff for those students completing their degree in 2005. Ms Harris was also a guest at this event.

Following the success of this presentation, Ms Luck said the Faculty of Business & Law was already drafting a program of career presentations to be held in the new academic year (2006) at CQU Mackay.

For further information about courses on offer through the Faculty of Business & Law please contact the Secretary of Business & Law in Mackay on 4940 7459.

Photo above: (from left) Sub-Dean of Business & Law Ms Jo Luck with Donna Zillman, John Bernard, David Erba, Maria Harris (presenter), Christine Burdon, Annette Wisnewski and Julie Simons.

Photo left: Maria (second from left) is completing the final year of her Bachelor of Business (Accounting) degree and is already employed as Mine Accountant with BMA's Goonyella Riverside Mine.