Student Employability Achievement Award
This award recognises students who have shown initiative and commitment in developing their employability skills through a diverse range of activities. These activities may be undertaken both within the University of Newcastle and in the broader community. Recipients will have demonstrated active participation in employability-related activities and the ability to reflect meaningfully on how these experiences have supported their career development.
Selection Criteria
Nominees for this award will have demonstrated significant personal and professional growth through involvement in activities outside their academic studies. Examples of eligible activities include:
- Participation in extra- and co-curricular programs at the University, such as leadership programs, mentoring initiatives, etc.
- Volunteering on campus or in the wider community (e.g., with sporting clubs, government bodies, schools, charities, or community organisations).
- Active involvement in University clubs and societies.
- Development of personal branding, such as creating an e-portfolio, LinkedIn profile, or similar.
- Participation in global mobility programs, including study abroad or international study tours.
- Engagement in discipline-related networking, such as involvement in professional associations.
- Building professional networks through involvement in discipline-related groups or professional associations.
- Completion of professional development courses designed to strengthen employability skills or develop specialised knowledge aligned with career aspirations.
Up to two recipients may be selected for this award.
Who can be nominated?
Nominees must:
- Be a current student or a recent graduate who completed their studies in 2025.
- Demonstrate alignment with the following definition of employability:
“Graduate employability is the ongoing development of skills and experiences that enable alumni to navigate and create meaningful work across changing contexts, shaped through the collaborative efforts of students, universities, industry, and community.” (Adapted from Cheng, Adekola, Earnest & Kokkinn, 2022.)
This means employability is not limited to securing a job, but encompasses a broader set of skills, attributes, and mindsets that support success and adaptability throughout a graduate’s working life. - Not have previously received the Student Employability Achievement Award.
Who can nominate?
Nominations for this award can be submitted by:
- Business, industry, or community partners, including workplace supervisors.
- University staff members.
- Students who are currently enrolled at the University or who graduated in 2025. Self-nominations are welcome.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.