Student Highlights
Ginny used postgrad study to start the next chapter of her career
After many years working as a journalist, foreign correspondent and filmmaker, Ginny was looking to change direction. She was hoping to develop her skills and explore different learning that would spark a new chapter in her career.
The first page of that chapter started with enrolling in the Master of Disaster Resilience and Sustainable Development at the University of Newcastle.
“I was attracted to the University of Newcastle because of their commitment towards Indigenous education, particularly in the area of health and medicine and that really got me looking at what else they had to offer.
“I was fortunate to meet a couple of the University’s lecturers and they pointed me towards the Master of Disaster Resilience and Sustainable Development.
“The course material looked interesting and let’s face it, who wouldn’t want to be a Master of Disaster?” Ginny said.
While diving into her coursework, Ginny also wanted to experience on-the-ground development work – which meant flexible study options were a must.
“The structure of the course was a major drawcard. Trimesters and the option to study online or face to face made all the difference.
“I was an online student throughout, but on a couple of occasions I made the journey to the Central Coast campus to take advantage of the library and its staff,”Ginny said.
Aside from building her knowledge through core content, Ginny’s learning provided practical skills focused on work readiness for her next career.
“I wanted to take a year out to work in development, which I’m fortunate enough to be doing, before hopefully moving more into the emergency response field.
“I’m working with the Forestry Department of Vanuatu under the Australian Government’s Volunteers for International Development Program. I’m getting to mix my old skills with new ones in a multimedia capacity-building role.
“It’s brilliant and I’m learning so much, and thoroughly enjoying it. I’ve been able to continue filming and editing, plus implement a social media campaign aimed at promoting forestry awareness.
“This course has given me a new-found confidence and at the same time, I’ve gained firsthand development experience. It has really encouraged me to continue with ongoing learning,” Ginny said.
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Ginny Stein
Ginny Stein studied a Master of Disaster Resilience and Sustainable Development at the University of Newcastle.
The structure of the course was a major drawcard. Trimesters and the option to study online or face to face made all the difference.
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