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Student marketing team recruits members for 2005

March 09, 2005

Students at the University of New England will have more opportunity than ever this year to become involved in business and community projects in the New England region.

Recruit.thumb.jpgThis involvement is through UNESMART, a team of students who volunteer to do paid or unpaid work for the marketing projects of the University itself, and of its business and community partners.

UNESMART has been operating since 2002. Its coordinator, Philippa Kneen, said there would be a new focus this year on projects within the wider community. “In previous years, the students have been involved mainly in UNE recruitment projects such as Open Day and careers markets,” Ms Kneen said. “This year we are hoping to get them involved as well in some of our collaborative projects with business and community organisations.”

Ms Kneen, from UNE’s Directorate of Marketing and Public Affairs, said active membership of UNESMART helped students develop their leadership, teamwork and communication skills. “It also gives them an opportunity to enhance their portfolios,” she said, “and to gain points towards the New England Award” [UNE’s award for extra-curricular involvement in University and community activities].

As an example, Ms Kneen mentioned a former student who, after being a member of the UNESMART team for two years, and graduating in 2004, had found a job with a
Government Department in Canberra. “She attributes her success in gaining this position partly to her experience in UNESMART,” she said.

“Students wanting to join the UNESMART team need to make a commitment to the team for 12 months,” she continued. “It is up to each student to decide what projects or activities they undertake during that time. As a rule, most members complete 40 hours during the 12 months, which works out at about one hour a week.”

The Chair of UNESMART, Michael Walsh, has been a member of the team since its formation in 2002. Now the Business Development Officer for Challenge Armidale, one of UNE’s business and community partners, he says his UNESMART experience played a big part in gaining him that position.

To apply for membership of UNESMART, go to the Web site at: http://www.une.edu.au/mpa/unesmart/. Applications can be made online, or by downloading an application form from the Web site. Applications close on Friday 11 March.

For more information, ring Philippa Kneen on (02) 6773 2114.

Posted by Jim Scanlan at March 9, 2005 04:24 PM