Professional Experience Support Coordinator (PESC) Activities

Placements are a vital part of university study, yet they often present challenges for students from equity backgrounds. The Professional Experience Support Coordinator (PESC) initiative supports students from low-SES, regional/remote areas, and First Nations communities, helping them navigate placement, manage costs, and stay engaged.

In Q1, PESCs engaged over 500 students through Welcome Week stalls and delivered two From Campus to Career sessions with more than 70 attendees. Weekly drop-ins and one-on-one sessions were also introduced to offer personalised support and improve placement retention.

To reduce financial strain, students could apply for a one-off $100 reimbursement (via SSAF) for mandatory pre-placement expenses. Targeted communications led to strong uptake, with students confirming the assistance reduced stress and supported learning. Placement Support Packs were also developed and distributed based on feedback from students and hosts, containing practical items to ease placement-related burdens. Survey responses showed high satisfaction and appreciation.

The initiative partnered with key stakeholders—Wollotuka, Counselling, ED&I, Careers, Health Services, and Course Coordinators—to streamline access to placement-related supports and scholarships. QR-coded surveys, mid-placement check-ins, and targeted drop-ins helped identify students needing further assistance. Web updates, lecture visits, and collaboration with Careers further enhanced visibility.

PESCs also contributed to university and national policy discussions, including the Commonwealth Practicum Payment working group and an Indigenous student retention initiative, embedding equity within placement policy. Overall, the initiative has strengthened placement outcomes by providing practical, targeted, and culturally informed support.