Pat Yeoh

I would really recommend UNE to anyone who wants a good-quality education in an environment conducive to learning. The education I received there was superb, and the lecturers and tutors were wonderful. They gave me personalised attention when I needed help with my studies, and I believe I wouldn't have made it without their guidance and encouragement.

It was at UNE that I learnt to live independently in a diverse community. I lived in Mary White College – a multicultural community that gave me a great opportunity to learn about a variety of national cultures. I made many friends while I was there, and many of us continue to keep in touch despite now being in different countries.

After graduating at the end of 1992 I returned to Malaysia, where I began work a few months later with Esso (now Exxon Mobil) Production Malaysia Inc. The company had immediately recognised the relevance of my Financial Management qualification from UNE, giving me the opportunity to become an accountant. My Economics degree, on the other hand, laid the foundation for my entire career, which has moved from accountancy to human resources – and my own consulting business.

I have maintained ties to UNE – and gained many new friends – through my association with the UNE Malaysia Alumni Chapter (UNEMA) and the Malaysian Australian Alumni Council (MAAC), serving as President of both organisations. And through MAAC, which is an association of all alumni chapters of Australian universities in Malaysia, I have been able to promote UNE as a leading educational institution.