Where do I start?
Welcome to the UNE Career website. Whether starting your career journey, exploring the varied job opportunities, or navigating a career change, we are here to help!
Sometimes, the best place to start is at the beginning. When it comes to you and your career, the beginning is learning more about you. You probably know yourself pretty well, but here are a few ideas to get you in the career thinking headspace.
When entering the career thinking headspace, we suggest you start by acknowledging and articulating your strengths, values, and aspirations. This will allow you to make decisions that truly align with who you are and what you want to achieve. Self-awareness is the foundation for building a successful and fulfilling career, helping you identify opportunities that are the right fit for you. This little activity is self-paced and, once completed, can be shared and discussed in a Career Chat with a member of our fantastic team. Let’s begin this exciting journey by exploring what makes you unique! Please note, that sometimes, creating a mind map for this activity can be a helpful visual guide to refer to as a source of motivation and inspiration when studying. Step 1. Your Strengths - Write down five things you are really good at. These can be technical skills (e.g., writing, coding, design) or essential skills (e.g., empathy, problem-solving, communication). Add a compliment or positive feedback at the end of this list. What do others say you excel at? Is there a specific example? Step 2. Your Values – List the top five things that matter most to you in study, work or life (e.g., helping others, creativity, loyalty). If you were speaking with a close friend or family member, what do you think would be the first positive word they would say about you? Write that down at the end of this list. Step 3. Your Future – Picture your life in a few years from now and consider the following questions: Based on your future, write down three personal or professional aspirations based on this vision of you in a few years. Step 4. Connect the Dots – let’s review those lists of your strengths, values and future. Ask yourself: Write a summary of the insights gained from this activity. This activity aims to help you see what drives and excites you and where you want to go. If you would like to discuss your vision in further detail, book a Career Chat. Tools and Resources to Use: "These 20 Questions Can Help You Boost Your Self-Awareness" UNE has broad study areas for students, which opens a world of possibilities regarding the work you can do with a UNE degree. Here are the study areas: Animal and Agriculture, Business and Finance, Earth and Environment, Education and Teaching, Health, Humanities and Arts, IT and Data Science, Languages, Linguistics and International, Law and Criminology, Psychology and Mental Health, Sciences and Social Sciences. From these study areas, you can explore a myriad of opportunities. Career exploration can be an exciting chance to see yourself working in a particular career area with a particular company. Let’s take these study areas and discover the diverse career areas that await. Animal and Agriculture Careers This career area is in high demand as it requires specialist skills. Depending on your study area, the potential job listings and businesses you could work with include, but are not limited to: AgriFutures Australia focuses on developing new and emerging industries in Australian agriculture, offering resources and opportunities in animal production, agribusiness, and natural resource management. Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry provides information on careers and current job openings within the department, encompassing areas like animal production, natural resource management, and agribusiness. National Parks and Wildlife Service NSW offers career opportunities in wildlife services, land care, and natural resource management within New South Wales. Meat and Livestock Australia provides resources and career opportunities in animal production industries, including livestock management and animal nutrition services. Australian Society of Soil Science offers resources and information on careers in soil conservation and natural resource management. Landcare Australia focuses on land care and environmental management, providing information on projects, volunteering, and career opportunities. Australian Agribusiness Association provides resources and networking opportunities for professionals in the agribusiness sector. Zoological Parks and Aquariums of Australia offers information on careers in zoology and wildlife management across Australia. These are just a few of the exciting opportunities available. Your studies, skills, and experiences are highly transferable, opening doors to a diverse range of careers across countless industries. By the time you graduate, exciting new opportunities may be waiting for you, with the rapid changes in the world of work, new jobs and industries emerging that don't yet exist. Stay open to possibilities, embrace lifelong learning, and keep exploring the vast potential of your skills and experiences. Business and Finance Careers This career area is well sought after with specialist skills in creative and critical thinking, problem-solving and innovation. Depending on your study area, the potential job listings and businesses you could work with include: Reserve Bank of Australia offers opportunities in economic and financial analysis, information technology, business analysis, project management, banking, settlements, law, accounting, facilities management, human resources, and science. Australian Government Department of Finance offers roles in government policy, financial services, and administration, contributing to the management of public resources. Australian Public Service Commission provides a portal for job opportunities across various government departments, including policy development, administration, and leadership roles. AgCareers.com specialises in job listings within the agribusiness sector, including roles in business management, marketing, and financial services. Australian Marketing Institute offers job listings and career resources for professionals in marketing, business development, and related fields. Australian Human Resources Institute (AHRI) provides resources and job listings for HR professionals, including strategic organisational development and leadership roles. Institute of Public Administration Australia (IPAA) offers information on careers in public administration, government policy, and leadership within the public sector. These are just a few of the exciting opportunities available. Your studies, skills, and experiences are highly transferable, opening doors to various careers across countless industries. With the rapid changes in the world of work, new jobs and industries that don’t yet exist are emerging, meaning that by the time you graduate, exciting new opportunities may be waiting for you. Stay open to possibilities, embrace lifelong learning, and keep exploring the vast potential of your skills and experiences. Earth and Environment Careers Earth and environment experts are increasingly in demand.The potential job listings and businesses to explore are vast depending on your study area. Check out the following: Department of Environment and Science (DES) is a Queensland government department responsible for environmental protection, conservation, and scientific research, offering roles for environmental consultants, research scientists, ecologists, and conservation specialists. Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) is a Queensland government department responsible for environmental protection, conservation, and scientific research. It offers a national science agency that conducts research across various scientific disciplines, including environmental science and geology, providing opportunities for research scientists and geoscientists. World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Australia is a leading conservation organisation focusing on environmental protection and sustainability. It employs ecologists, conservation specialists, and environmental scientists. Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority is an Australian government agency dedicated to preserving the Great Barrier Reef, offering positions for marine ecologists, conservation specialists, and environmental scientists. CDM Smith Australiais an environmental consultancy firm providing services in water, environment, transportation, energy, and facilities, employing environmental consultants and geoscientists. Environmental Resources Management (ERM) Australia is a leading global provider of environmental, health, safety, risk, and social consulting services, with offices in major Australian cities, offering roles for environmental consultants and risk managers. NGH Environmental Consultants is an Australian firm specialising in environmental impact assessments, management, and planning, employing environmental consultants, ecologists, and conservation specialists. These are just a few of the exciting opportunities available. Your studies, skills, and experiences are highly transferable, opening doors to a diverse range of careers across countless industries. With the rapid changes in the world of work, new jobs and industries are emerging that don’t yet exist, meaning that by the time you graduate, exciting new opportunities may be waiting for you. Stay open to possibilities, embrace lifelong learning, and keep exploring the vast potential of your skills and experiences. Education and Teaching Careers Teachers are increasingly in demand and depending on your teaching area, you could have a career as an: Early Childhood Teachers are employed in settings such as childcare centres and preschools, such as GoodStart Early Learning, and community-based centres. Private and public kindergartens and many early learning centres are affiliated with primary schools or operate independently. Primary School Teachers can find positions in public primary schools operated by state and territory education departments, such as the NSW Department of Education, as well as private and independent schools, including faith-based schools, such as Catholic Schools NSW and secular institutions. High School Teachers are employed by public secondary schools, which government education departments manage. There are also private and Independent Secondary Schools, such as Steiner Education Australia. Professional Development Educators work outside of the classroom. Those with an education and teaching degree can be employed by corporate training providers who deliver in-house training programs, education management or technology, such as Learning or Instructional Designers, or Educational Consultancies that specialise in professional development or work with government agencies to develop and implement educational policies. These are just a few of the exciting opportunities available. Your studies, skills, and experiences are highly transferable, opening doors to various careers across countless industries. With the rapid changes in the world of work, new jobs and industries that don’t yet exist are emerging, meaning that by the time you graduate, exciting new opportunities may be waiting for you. Stay open to possibilities, embrace lifelong learning, and keep exploring the vast potential of your skills and experiences. Health Careers Those with qualifications in health areas are particularly in demand in Australia. Depending on the area of health, you could have a career in: Medicine professionals have diverse employment opportunities across the public and private healthcare sectors. Public hospitals, such as the John Hunter Hospital, are managed by state and territory health departments and provide a wide range of specialised medical services. Private healthcare providers operate an extensive nationwide network of hospitals and clinics, delivering comprehensive care across multiple specialties. Pharmacy and Biomedical Science roles can be found across community pharmacies, pharmaceutical companies, and biomedical research institutions. Pharmaceutical companies such as CSL Limited, a global biotechnology leader based in Australia, and Sanofi Australia & New Zealand, a major producer of medicines and vaccines, offer roles in developing innovative treatments and advancing healthcare solutions. Careers in biomedical science also include working in research laboratories, universities, and healthcare organisations, driving discoveries that improve public health and medical technologies. Nurses have diverse career opportunities across public and private hospitals, aged care facilities, and community health services. Organisations like Ramsay Health Care, a leading private hospital operator, employ nurses in surgical and critical care specialties. Additionally, aged care providers like Regis Aged Care and Bupa Aged Care offer roles in geriatric nursing, while community health services provide opportunities in outreach and community-based care programs. Social Work and Community Services can find employment in non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and government agencies. NGOs like Mission Australia and The Salvation Army deliver essential social and community support services, while government departments such as the Department of Communities and Justice provide roles in social work and community development programs. Counselling professionals work in diverse settings, including mental health services and educational institutions. Organisations like Beyond Blue and Headspace provide vital support and resources for individuals facing mental health challenges. Exercise and Sports offer a range of careers. Those accredited with ESSA can look at roles in fitness centres, education and policy, community health and hospitals, aged care, and health promotion. The Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) is a premier facility for elite athlete training, employing exercise physiologists, sports scientists, and trainers to support peak performance and recovery. Disability is a growing demand for highly trained health and disability practitioners. Career opportunities in this field are available through organisations like Life Without Barriers and Aruma, which provide tailored support services, and through government programs such as the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), managed by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA). Mental Health careers are varied, including mental health clinics, public and private hospitals with dedicated mental health departments, and community outreach programs. The Black Dog Institute , a leading research and clinical organisation, specialises in mental health education, prevention, and treatment. These roles support individuals experiencing mental health challenges through specialised care, community-based programs, and cutting-edge research. These are just a few of the exciting opportunities available. Your studies, skills, and experiences are highly transferable, opening doors to a diverse range of careers across countless industries. With the rapid changes in the world of work, new jobs and industries are emerging that don’t yet exist, meaning that by the time you graduate, exciting new opportunities may be waiting for you. Stay open to possibilities, embrace lifelong learning, and keep exploring the vast potential of your skills and experiences. Humanities and Arts Careers The skills and knowledge obtained from studies in humanities and arts are increasingly in demand by employers across a wide variety of professions and industries. These include: Historians working in the public and private sectors, as well as in consultancy. This can include art historians, cultural historians, curators, library archives and policies and academic historians in tertiary research and/or education. Management includes project managers, operations managers, and business managers across various sectors. These positions focus on overseeing teams, optimising workflows, and ensuring the success of projects and business operations. Public Relations involves managing an organisation's public image through media relations, content creation, crisis communication, and corporate communications. Jobs include PR consultants, media managers, and social media strategists. Educationcareers range from early childhood educators to primary and secondary school teachers and administrative roles. They also include higher education teaching positions, education consultants, and education coordinators in various institutions. Government and Public Sector include policy advisors, project coordinators, public service officers, and roles in departments like health, education, environment, and defence. These positions focus on public administration, governance, and community service. Australian Research Council jobs span scientific research, market research, data analysis, and policy research. Roles include research scientists, data analysts, research assistants, and market research analysts, all contributing to knowledge discovery and decision-making. Creative Industries offer jobs in areas like design, film, media, advertising, performing arts, and digital media. Roles include graphic designers, film producers, content creators, digital marketers, and creative directors, who contribute to the development of cultural and artistic projects. These are just a few of the exciting opportunities available. Your studies, skills, and experiences are highly transferable, opening doors to various careers across countless industries. With the rapid changes in the world of work, new jobs and industries that don’t yet exist are emerging, meaning that by the time you graduate, exciting new opportunities may be waiting for you. Stay open to possibilities, embrace lifelong learning, and keep exploring the vast potential of your skills and experiences. IT and Data Science Careers Innovative, agile and qualified IT and data scientists are sought after both nationally and internationally. Careers in this area can include: Software Design, Computer Science, Web and Mobile Developmentjobs in this area range from software engineers, web developers, mobile app developers, and systems architects. These roles involve designing, building, and maintaining software applications, websites, and mobile platforms. Scientific Technology, Data Science, and Analyticscareers focus on scientific technology, data science, and analytics focus on data analysis, interpretation, and application in fields like healthcare, engineering, and research. Roles include data scientists, research analysts, laboratory managers, and biostatisticians. Computer Networking, Database and Systems Administration careers involve maintaining and managing IT infrastructure, networks, and databases. Roles include network administrators, systems engineers, database administrators, and IT support specialists. ICT Security, Cyber Management roles focus on safeguarding digital infrastructure and responding to cyber threats. Jobs include cyber security analysts, information security officers, ethical hackers, and cyber risk managers. Business and Systems Analysts work to analyse business needs and improve processes through technology solutions. Roles include business analysts, systems analysts, and enterprise architects, often bridging the gap between business operations and IT systems. These are just a few of the exciting opportunities available. Your studies, skills, and experiences are highly transferable, opening doors to various careers across countless industries. With the rapid changes in the world of work, new jobs and industries that don’t yet exist are emerging, meaning that by the time you graduate, exciting new opportunities may be waiting for you. Stay open to possibilities, embrace lifelong learning, and keep exploring the vast potential of your skills and experiences. Languages, Linguistics and International Careers Studies in this area provide a range of opportunities both domestically and internationally. This can include Government, Inter-Governmental and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) include positions in policy development, program management, and public service. Employers include Australian government departments, international organisations, and NGOs like Oxfam and Greenpeace. These roles focus on public service, humanitarian efforts, and policy advocacy. Defence Forces offer a wide range of civilian jobs in support of defence operations. Human Rights Advocacyinvolves promoting human rights, social justice, and equality. Careers can be found with organisations like Amnesty International Australia, Human Rights Watch, and the Australian Human Rights Commission, working on policy, awareness, and campaigns. Intelligence Agencies offer positions in national security, intelligence gathering, analysis, and counterterrorism. Positions range from intelligence officers to cybersecurity experts. International Diplomacy offerscareer opportunities in foreign policy, consular services, and international trade and relations. Journalism offers diverse roles, such as reporters, editors, and investigative journalists. Media outlets like The Guardian Australia, ABC, and News Corp Australia employ journalists to report on news, politics, and social issues across various platforms. Overseas Development Assistanceinvolves managing international aid, development programs, and humanitarian relief. Organisations like the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and various international NGOs employ people in roles that focus on poverty alleviation and sustainable development globally. These are just a few of the exciting opportunities available. Your studies, skills, and experiences are highly transferable, opening doors to various careers across countless industries. With the rapid changes in the world of work, new jobs and industries that don’t yet exist are emerging, meaning that by the time you graduate, exciting new opportunities may be waiting for you. Stay open to possibilities, embrace lifelong learning, and keep exploring the vast potential of your skills and experiences. Law and Criminology Careers Professions with qualifications in law and criminology are varied and fall across the professional and public sectors. The variation of career options for those with a background in law and criminology can include: Legal Aid Agencies, Advocacy Organisations, and Law Firmsoffer roles in providing legal support and representation to individuals in need, policy advocacy, and corporate law services. Opportunities include lawyers, paralegals, and legal advocates. Government Departments provide a range of public services including legal, policy, and administration. Key employers include federal, state, and local government agencies such as the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and the Department of Attorney-General. Roles span across legal services, regulatory affairs, and policy advice. Policy Development positions focus on shaping laws and regulations that impact society. Employers include government departments such as the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet, think tanks like The Grattan Institute, and policy research organisations. These positions involve research, analysis, and development of public policies. Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice involve opportunities in research, policy, and program development that aim to reduce crime and improve public safety. Employers include the Australian Institute of Criminology, state police forces, and criminal justice reform organisations. Legal Support Services, such as the Law Society of New South Wales, provide assistance to legal practitioners and clients. This can range from administrative support in law firms to roles in legal research, case management, and paralegal work. The Law Society of New South Wales and various private law firms are key employers. Policing and Corrections federal and state police forces employ individuals in law enforcement, crime prevention, and security roles. Corrections facilities, such as those operated by the Department of Justice, offer rehabilitation and prison management positions. Regulationbodies such as Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC ) and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) play key roles in overseeing the financial markets, consumer protection, and competition. Careers in regulation focus on enforcement, compliance, and investigative roles across various sectors, including finance, healthcare, and telecommunications. These are just a few of the exciting opportunities available. Your studies, skills, and experiences are highly transferable, opening doors to various careers across countless industries. With the rapid changes in the world of work, new jobs and industries that don’t yet exist are emerging, meaning that by the time you graduate, exciting new opportunities may be waiting for you. Stay open to possibilities, embrace lifelong learning, and keep exploring the vast potential of your skills and experiences. Psychology and Mental Health Careers A growing trend in the labour force is qualified psychologists and mental health experts. Study in this area can open up opportunities such as: Clinical Psychology, Psychotherapy, and Public, Private, and Community Counselling offering opportunities in public health services, private clinics, and community organisations. Employers include hospitals, mental health services, and private practices offering psychological support and therapy services across various mental health conditions. Health Services employers include public and private hospitals, mental health clinics, and government bodies like the Department of Health and Aging. These offer opportunities in therapeutic practices, patient care, and mental health support services. Services Australia positions include counselling, social work, and therapeutic services. Employers include organisations like Mission Australia and Anglicare and government departments like the Department of Human Services . These services offer support for individuals experiencing life challenges, mental health issues, and disabilities. Research offers careers in the study of mental health, the brain and the nervous system, with job opportunities in research institutes and universities. The Manna Institute, CSIRO Health and Biosecurity, and universities such as the UNE employ neuroscientists, psychologists, and research assistants in roles focusing on brain health, neuroscience studies, and mental health research. These are just a few of the exciting opportunities available. Your studies, skills, and experiences are highly transferable, opening doors to various careers across countless industries. With the rapid changes in the world of work, new jobs and industries that don’t yet exist are emerging, meaning that by the time you graduate, exciting new opportunities may be waiting for you. Stay open to possibilities, embrace lifelong learning, and keep exploring the vast potential of your skills and experiences. Science Careers The job opportunities are extensive for those with a science background, and as the world radically evolves in technology and science, there will be growth in the profession. Some scientific roles to look at include: Pure Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics) careers in pure sciences include research roles in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and materials science. CSIRO and ANSTO (Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation) employ scientists in cutting-edge research and innovation. Agricultural and Animal Sciences find opportunities in agribusiness, animal health, and sustainable farming practices. Employers such as DAFF, Bayer Crop Science, and Elders Limited play significant roles in these sectors. Environmental Sciences contribute to sustainability, conservation, and climate change mitigation. Organisations like Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF), Greening Australia, and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority employ professionals dedicated to protecting ecosystems. Computer Sciences (Data Science, Software Development, Cybersecurity) careers in computer sciences include software engineering, data analytics, and cybersecurity. Employers such as Atlassian, Canva, and the ACS Foundation focus on tech innovation and talent development in the IT sector. These are just a few of the exciting opportunities available. Your studies, skills, and experiences are highly transferable, opening doors to various careers across countless industries. With the rapid changes in the world of work, new jobs and industries that don’t yet exist are emerging, meaning that by the time you graduate, exciting new opportunities may be waiting for you. Stay open to possibilities, embrace lifelong learning, and keep exploring the vast potential of your skills and experiences. Social Science Careers Those with skills and knowledge gained from the study of social science will find themselves well-suited to a range of professions and industries, such as: Policy, Planning, Human Capital/Resources, and Consultancy roles are found across various industries, including corporate firms, government departments, and non-profits. Employers such as Deloitte, KPMG, and public service departments hire policy and planning professionals and HR and consultancy to develop and implement organisational strategies and policies. Market and Social Research, and Advertising span agencies like Ipsos, Roy Morgan, and Ogilvy. These roles involve conducting consumer research, designing campaigns, and developing branding strategies for private companies, government initiatives, and NGOs. Family, Community, and Health Services professionals can find roles in organisations like Anglicare, The Salvation Army, and Mission Australia. These organisations support families, youth, and vulnerable populations in health services, crisis intervention, and community outreach. Journalists can work for media organisations like ABC, News Corp Australia, and Nine Entertainment Co., where they report on current events, conduct investigative journalism, and create engaging content for various audiences. Aid Agencies and Advocacy Groups such as Oxfam Australia and World Vision, employ individuals in roles focused on international development, advocacy, fundraising, and humanitarian aid to address global issues like poverty, inequality, and disaster response. These are just a few of the exciting opportunities available. Your studies, skills, and experiences are highly transferable, opening doors to various careers across countless industries. With the rapid changes in the world of work, new jobs and industries that don’t yet exist are emerging, meaning that by the time you graduate, exciting new opportunities may be waiting for you. Stay open to possibilities, embrace lifelong learning, and keep exploring the vast potential of your skills and experiences. There are several next steps you can take. It can depend on where you are in your studies and how much career planning you have already started. New to UNE If you are about to start or just started university, welcome! It doesn’t matter what brought you here to UNE; you already bring a wealth of skills, knowledge and experience. Our advice is to get involved. Current with UNE If you have been at UNE for a while, check in with the career team. You might want to or need to do the following: Back with UNE Welcome back! It’s great to see you again. We should catch up. Whether it’s been a few trimesters or a few years since returning to UNE, we want to be part of your academic and career journey. We have so many new and wonderful support and resources to share with you. Here’s a quick list This is just the start. Career Development is the “process of managing life, learning, work, leisure, and transitions across the lifespan to move towards a personally determined future (CICA, 2019).” This website, our amazing UNE Career Toolkit, and our awesome team are here to help you build on and achieve your personal and professional aspirations. We can’t wait to work with you! CICA. (2019). Professional Standards for Australian Career Development Practitioners.
Published on March 12, 2023, by Forbes https://www.forbes.com/sites/carolinecastrillon/2023/03/12/why-self-awareness-is-essential-for-career-success/
Published on September 3, 2024, by Verywell Mind https://www.verywellmind.com/twenty-questions-to-boost-your-self-awareness-8694345?utm_source=chatgpt.com
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