Therese Taylor

Degree CompletedTherese Taylor

Bachelor of Arts (majoring in English literature and Politics); Diploma of Education

On line Study or Campus Study?

It was campus study for me.  When I moved to Armidale in the mid/ late 70s the student body was divided into those who lived in Colleges, those who lived in town, and those who were external students and attended during semester breaks and who stayed in the Colleges.  I lived in town.

Describe your UNE study experience

I thoroughly enjoyed my 7 years living, studying and working in Armidale. I arrived in Armidale from Brisbane having studied for a Bachelor of Communication (Journalism) at Queensland Institute Technology (now QUT).

I was a young mother and arrived with my 3-month-old baby son. Over the next few years I combined study, parenting and living in a country town.  I found a home in the English and the Politics departments of the University. Both had world class staff and with a smaller student body you were able to develop a good sense of belonging.

Many of my fellow students lived in College and I made a number of friends , however I was also able to develop a wide range of networks and friendships in Armidale through my  family related  activities , my interests,  and part time work.

Following graduation I did decide to complete a Diploma of Education (not a path I initially envisaged, however one I thoroughly enjoyed).  Upon completion of the Dip Ed I was fortunate enough to secure a position at Ben Venue Primary School in Armidale and so another chapter had commenced.

What are you doing today with your degree?

With reflection I believe my qualifications from UNE gave me a very good foundation to move along a number of career paths and I have enjoyed a rewarding and satisfying career with roles in the public, the private and the not for profit sectors.

I relocated to Hobart Tasmania in the mid 80’s where I have held a number of senior executive roles in the Department of Education and the Department of Economic Development. I was also CEO of a community organization for 10 years. I developed high level skills in leadership, advocacy, stakeholder management and engagement, and strategy and policy across VET, housing, and capacity building in communities.

I have also served as a non-executive director and chair on several boards over the past 30 years in the areas of health, education, arts and culture.

As well as my directorships I am currently enjoying working as a consultant assisting businesses in the areas of governance, stakeholder management and community engagement.

Do you have any other information you would like to share?

The advice I would give is to ensure any role you undertake aligns with your values. Our working life needs to be challenging and rewarding; however life is too short to take jobs that may sound exciting but the ‘fit’ is not there and you don’t have a sense of satisfaction or contribution.