Marilyn Joy

Master of Commerce (Professional Accounting) 2008

Graduate Certificate in Professional Accounting 2006

1. Did you study online or on campus?  How was your experience studying either on campus or online?

UNE offered an opportunity for online study with a flexible learning platform that was fantastic and just what I was looking for at that time.

I enrolled in the Graduate Certificate in Professional Accounting, part-time over a period of 2 years.  As I was working full-time in a professional accounting practice, time management was challenging but workable.  This avenue provided an opportunity for further study adding to my prior qualifications and broadening my skill set.

On completion of the Graduate Certificate, I continued with the Master of Commerce Degree, once again on a part-time basis over a period of 2 years.

On-line study was very satisfying and rewarding for me. The material provided was excellent and time frames were manageable, however self-discipline was key!

2. Please provide any comments on your UNE lecturers/professors?

The UNE lecturers/professors were very supportive and provided excellent feedback and instructions to succeed in all areas of the course.  They were very professional, experienced and willing to provide precise and on point answers to questions.

3. What was your end goal when you started your degree?

My end goal was to advance my career within the accounting profession and to develop a knowledge skill set that would be competitive within the world of commerce.

4. How are you using what you learned in your degree in your professional life?

My degrees and continual learning have given me opportunities in my professional life that have been amazing. From working in public practice to executive roles in international and national companies across varying industries and sectors.  The knowledge I gained at UNE has supported my successful career.

5. What are your plans for the future?

I plan to continue contributing to the world of commerce, especially in the fields of accounting, finance and leadership management. To be able to share work experiences and mentor resources is one of the pleasures of my working life.  Also being open to opportunities the future may hold as I pride myself on being flexible an adaptable.

I think the best way of planning for the future is to make the most of the present.

6. What does living in South Australia mean to you?

South Australia has a wonderful blend of diverse lifestyles and opportunities whilst   Adelaide is a city full of sport, art and cultural activities. I have been fortunate to have experienced the wonderful mix of childhood in rural South Australia and city life in Adelaide.  My connection to rural South Australia remains strong and reminds me of a wonderful, carefree life and all that nature has to offer.  A return visit is a time to relax, enjoy the beautiful surrounds and soak up the amazing silence!

South Australia, especially Adelaide, where my home is, is a unique place to live with its wonderful fresh produce, wine regions, beautiful coastlines and hills to enjoy.