Meet our Graduates
Mitch Hamer
Then... Advanced Diploma of Management
Now... Bachelor of Human Resource Management, Macquarie University
Mitch Hamer’s brother had been a Martin College student so when Mitch finished school he decided to study at Martin College too with the aim of going on to uni.
What were the best aspects of Martin College?
Attending Martin College was one of the best years of my life. I learnt so much, made great friends and gained a whole lot more knowledge in business and other related fields that put me in a great position to make the transition to University. I made great friends in my time at college. I am still in contact with many people from my class and many of us frequently meet up for all sorts of reasons. I enjoyed the great atmosphere and the personal support and attention that was given to all students by the teaching staff.
Do you use skills obtained at Martin College in your study?
I gained a better understanding of business, great friends and entrance into my desired university course. Recruit, Select and Induct Staff was my favourite module because it has a lot of relevance to my interest in Human Resources. It gave a great overview of what you could expect if moving into a HR role.
What did you enjoy most about studying at Martin College?
Martin College had an extraordinarily friendly and welcoming environment. We always worked hard but there was definitely time for a good laugh. This made college a great place to be for everyone involved.
What are your plans for the future?
My ideal career path would be to work in a business related environment in Human Resources, Management or Marketing once I have finished my degree.
Ashleigh North
Then... Advanced Diploma of Business Management
Now... Bachelor of Business, majoring in HR Mgmt and Marketing at QUT. Working part-time in the QLD Dept of Public Prosecution.
I studied the Advanced Diploma of Business Management at Martin College, which was perfect preparation for my career.
I have met wonderful people throughout my Martin College journey, from other students and teachers to very helpful student services staff.
I successfully gained one year’s full credit into the Bachelor of Business majoring in Human Resource Management and Marketing at Queensland University of Technology.
I am also working part time in the Department of Public Prosecution where everyday I utilize the skills I gained at Martin College.
Rachel Young
Then... Diploma of Business
I have made an application to study Business and Accounting at QUT in Brisbane. My second preference is to study Commerce and Accounting at UQ.
Reason for choosing Martin College?
I had previously studied at Martin College (the Certificate IV in Business in 2008), on the recommendation of a friend who had also studied here.
Most enjoyable feature of studying at Martin College?
Meeting people from all the different backgrounds all over the world. And the atmosphere at the campus is such a buzz!
What would you say about your experience at Martin College?
It was quick and intense but also enjoyable and thrilling. One of my favourite classes was Project Management with Rebecca Halse – she really let us use our imagination and be creative. The Human Resource subjects were really challenging but once completed it was really gratifying – I learnt so much. Even though the teacher had high expectations I wanted to get the best grades possible. Thanks to my teachers I reached a personal goal of achieving great grades, and I also gained a lot of knowledge. Special thanks to Emma Redina for sharing her knowledge with me – I loved going to class.
How would you say Martin College has helped your career?
It has helped me further my education and it has also improved my report writing skills and my workplace professionalism.
I spent some time with Rachel Evans who is the academic skills advisor – she gave me personal confidence by sharing her life experiences with me. This also helped me achieve my goals outside of class, which was hugely beneficial.
Rachel also helped me to improve my academic writing skills, and I now feel prepared to enter University.
In addition to this, I had access to the e2e job portal – which was personalised for Martin College students, and easy to use. I used the Resume builder tool, and found it to be extremely useful. I liked that I was not competing with the whole world for a job; just other students. I have also joined the Martin College Alumni on Linkdin and it’s great knowing I can access this service forever – it will allow me to stay in touch with friends I have made here, and network with professionals in the industry.
What’s next?
Before I start Uni in February next year I would like to find a part time job, which I can hopefully retain while I study. I have made some great contacts at Martin College and will definitely stay in touch...
Mia Ignjatic
Then… Diploma of Information Technology (Systems Administration)
Now... Provisional Support Engineer, Erickson Australia Pty Ltd.
Mia Ignjatic wanted to develop her interest in IT and a career in something she enjoyed doing, so she chose to complete a Diploma of Information Technology (Systems Administration) at Martin College.
What are you doing now?
I am currently working for Ericsson Australia Pty Ltd. My position is ‘Provisioning Support Engineer’. We look after all 3G numbers in which we assist in any problems our customers may have with any of their services, sim cards and handsets. We also monitor and implement fixes for the network. I couldn’t have asked for a better employer.
What were the best aspects of Martin College?
I enjoyed the overall atmosphere, it was a very pleasant place to be in everyday. The lecturers were very helpful and always approachable. They helped me very much, and led me to where I am today. The new friends I made and, of course, the subjects that I studied were also great.
Do you use skills obtained at Martin College in the workforce?
Every subject I studied at Martin College is somehow incorporated into something that I do at work. Before my diploma, I knew very little about Java and scripting but because of what I learned at Martin College I am able to confidently use Java and scripting which is important in this job. We also deal with a lot of operating systems, especially UNIX, and I learned a lot about this at Martin College. I specifically remember my ‘IT Workplace Skills’ and ‘Client/Team Relations’ subjects because they went into every possible detail about how to prepare yourself to deal with problems. It also gave us scenarios to think about then resolve, and problem solving techniques to help.
Andrew Martin
Then... Diploma of Information Technology (Systems Administration)
Now... IT Recruitment, EDS Australia
I commenced studying a Diploma of Information Technology (Systems Administration) from Martin College during 2003. After successfully completing the course I had options available, I could seek either employment or further education.
I started looking for work within the IT industry but actually had an opportunity arise within IT Recruitment. My IT recruitment career blossomed as I had all of the technical knowledge from my studies at Martin College to talk the talk. That complemented my personal skills, which meant I was also able to walk the walk!
I have now been in the IT Recruitment industry for 5 years, and am currently employed with EDS Australia (international IT outsourcing company) working within the recruitment team sourcing potential IT candidates.
My career, experience, and skills is something I can easily trace back to my studies at Martin College, and am thankful I had that experience as it opened up many opportunities for me.
Geoffrey Collom
Then... Diploma of Information Technology
Reason for choosing Martin College?
Martin College, from my research, was a reputable College with an excellent team of teaching staff and support. The smaller class sizes ensure more than adequate facilitator assistance. Most of all Martin College provided a payment scheme that allowed me to pay as the year progressed.
Most enjoyable feature of studying at Martin College?
I must say the staff and Students were excellent company and to this day I still converse with my new friends, including the staff.
What would you say about your experience at Martin College?
An all-round pleasant experience which I would not trade for the world. It helped me get into the door of my career, which was something I had been struggling with for years.
While the relaxed environment allows you to learn, the deadlines for assessments are realistic to real world work environments. Martin College has prepared me for private enterprise.
How would you say Martin College has helped your career?
I gained valuable knowledge and experience at Martin College, and now I also have a piece of paper with Martin College’s name on it – which is what gets you in the door. I would not be where I am if I hadn’t gone to Martin College. They helped me find the courage to be myself in an interview, but mainly they helped me by finding the position and sending my résumé through to them. And as they say, the rest is history. I have a wonderful job which drives me to learn and progress, and it has a real career aspect. My workplace is one I can proudly say I am part of.
