In this issue

As we move through Term 4, many students begin to think about what they will do over the summer break. With the lead up to Christmas, many retail outlets and seasonal employers look for new employees to help during these busy periods. This is a great time to apply for a part-time job to add to your resume. If you do not have a resume or it needs to be updated, book a time with me to make sure you are ready to apply.

There are a few things that you can do to get yourself ready for the workforce such as applying for your Tax File Number (TFN) and your Unique Student Identifier (USI). Both numbers are free to create and will be used throughout your life so once created, make sure you file them in a place where you can find them again when required.

A TFN is your personal reference number that is used in the tax and superannuation systems including applying to university for Fee Help or HECS. This is a unique number that you will have for life, even if you move or change your name or job. You are not legally required to get one, however, without one you will pay more tax and will not be able to run a business or apply for any government benefits. It costs nothing to apply for and is easy to apply online and then confirm your details at your local post office. To apply, visit:  TFN application

A USI is your individual education number for life. It also gives you an online record of your vocational education and training (VET) undertaken anywhere in Australia. If you are applying for university, TAFE or undertaking any nationally recognised training, you will need a USI. Without one, you cannot receive Commonwealth financial assistance, your qualification or a statement of attainment for your training. To apply, visit: USI application

‘You don’t have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great.’ – Zig Ziglar

Sarah Luck
Head of Careers
sluck@stpaulsags.vic.edu.au

10 Effective Exam Tips

The lead up to exams can be daunting, but if you can get organised and plan ahead you will be less stressed and well-prepared to give yourself the best chance possible. The following tips will help you create a study schedule and stay organised;

1. Create a study schedule
   Plan your study sessions in advance and break down your subjects into manageable chunks. A schedule helps you stay organised and ensures you cover all necessary topics.
2. Set specific goals
   Goal-making is a fantastic life hack, so define some clear and achievable study goals for each subject and every study session. Having a purpose for your study time keeps you focused and motivated, and you’ll feel great checking off each item as you go.
3. Use active learning techniques
   There are lots of learning techniques out there to help you engage with your study materials and be effective in your learning. Try summarising key points in your own words, teaching the content to someone else, or creating flashcards for quick review. Check here for 7 more effective study techniques that could work for you, or find out about other study hacks to complement other learning styles.
4. Prioritise problem areas
   Identify your weaker subjects or topics and allocate more study time to them. Do not neglect your strengths, but make sure you give extra attention where it is needed. Remember, you can always ask your teachers for help if you are struggling.
5. Take regular breaks
   Breaks are essential for maintaining concentration, staying on track, and self-care. Follow the Pomodoro technique to maximise productivity, or check out these other tips to help you boost your study motivation.
6. Stay healthy
   A balanced diet, regular exercise, and enough sleep are crucial during exam preparation – a healthy body supports a healthy mind. You could try some brain boosting snacks and incorporating other wellbeing tips if you’re not too sure where to start.
7. Practise past papers
   Reviewing past exam papers is an excellent way to helps you gauge your progress, identify any knowledge gaps, and familiarise yourself with the format and types of questions you will get in your exams.
8. Use online resources
   Take advantage of online study materials, video tutorials and educational websites to supplement your learning. They often provide fresh perspectives on difficult topics (just make sure you do not get distracted while online).
9. Join a study group
   Join a study group with classmate – if there is not one already, why not get one started? Discuss concepts, ask questions, and help teach each other by sharing skills and understanding. As long as you stay focused, study groups can help reinforce your learning and grow your knowledge.
10. Stay positive and manage stress
    Maintain a positive mindset and do not let stress overwhelm you. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation or yoga to keep anxiety at bay.
    Remember, success in exams is not just about how many hours you study but how effectively you use that time. Implementing study tips that work for you, could help you perform better and make the learning process more enjoyable or at least less stressful.

You can find more study tips on the Study Work Grow website here.

Important Dates

For a full list of cancelled, amended, and new courses, visit VTAC Course Updates

Events and Information Sessions

University of Melbourne | Study Engineering and IT: Information Session and Panel Discussion
Discover your pathway to a fulfilling career in engineering or IT as The University of Melbourne presents an engaging information session and panel discussion.  The evening will commence with a presentation by leading Professor and Pro Vice-Chancellor (Education) Jamie Evans, followed by a panel conversation featuring insights from a current student, an academic expert and a representative from the Co-curricular and Internships team.

After the panel discussion, refreshments will be served and there will be an opportunity to network with industry professionals, alumni, academics, current students and staff from the admissions and future students team.

Wednesday 18 October, 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Find out more

Work Experience Program (WEP) | Student Exchange Information Session
Imagine making friends from all over the world, learning about yourself and the world around you and seeing sights you could only dream of! Find out more about your student exchange opportunities at WEP’s online information session.

WEP information sessions are free and provide students and parents the opportunity to meet some of our WEP staff, hear all about student exchange opportunities and ask us any questions!

Thursday October 19, 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Find out more

Academy of Interactive Technology (AIT) MasterTalks – Meet the Art Director for Bluey TV show
Level 13, 120 Spencer Street, Melbourne

Head along to the AIT’s studio in Melbourne for the MasterTalk with Costa Daniel Kassab, lead art director for Ludo Studio’s Bluey TV show!  Learn about his career journey and get a glimpse into some of the main projects throughout his career.

Places are limited so book your seat now!

Thursday October 19, 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Find out more

Medicine and Dentistry for Year 11 students
Current Year 11 students who are considering applying for undergraduate medicine and/or dentistry courses in the future may need to sit the Undergraduate Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT) in Year 12 for the 2025 intake.  NIE is running a free webinar on Wednesday November 15 that will cover the following questions:

• What is UCAT?
• The undergraduate selection criteria
• Application process into universities for medicine and dentistry
• When and who can sit the UCAT
• UCAT vs GAMSAT – How is UCAT different?
• Can you prepare for the UCAT?
• Undergraduate medical school interview explained and medical school interview preparation advice.
• Gap Year
• Alternative degrees and career choices

Students and their families can register for the webinar via www.nie.edu.au
For further details about the UCAT visit: UCAT

Magnify Music Camp
15 – 20 January 2024

Magnify is an intensive high-level skills camp for secondary school students between the ages of 14–18 who are serious about career success in the field of music. Run by Box Hill Institute, the camp will run between January 15 – 20 2024.  Across daily tutorials, workshops and collaborative sessions students will develop skills in songwriting and composition, improvisation and arranging.
There will be a final concert on Friday night, where students can show off their newfound skills. Entry is by audition and there are only 30 places. The cost is $450.

For further details and to apply visit: Magnify Music Camp

Entry Schemes

Artistic Performers Entry Schemes
Some universities have entry schemes for people who have been heavily involved in performing arts during their secondary school studies. Applicants must be recognised by an organisation such as: ABC Concerts, Actors Equity Australia, Australian Chamber Orchestra, Australian Dance Council, Australian Dance Theatre, Melbourne Theatre Company, Musica Viva, Opera Australia, The Symphony Australia Orchestras or Victorian Opera.

The following are examples of universities that offer a performer entry scheme:

Elite Athlete Entry Schemes
Are you an elite athlete? Did you know that you may be eligible for a range of benefits as an elite athlete at university or TAFE? This could include:

• ATAR adjustments towards your selection rank for entry into courses.
• Academic planning advice and course flexibility.
• Negotiation of assessment deadlines and attendance at lectures and tutorials.
• Support with special consideration, exam relocation and studying classes at other universities or online if you are travelling for training or competitions.

The Elite Athlete Education Network (EAEN) provides ‘a network of Australian Institute of Sport endorsed providers in the areas of higher education where athletes can learn and equip themselves with qualifications, knowledge and skills for future careers beyond their sport.’

Applicants must be recognised by an organisation by such as:
Australian Institute of Sport, state institutes or academies of sport, AFL Players Association, Australian Cricketers Association, Australian Professional Footballers Association, and national squad members from Sport Australia funded sports. Note – some universities recognise emerging athletes from eligible organisations.

For information on endorsed institutes and the application process and dates for each institute, visit www.ais.gov.au/career-and-education/eaen

University News

News from Monash University
Pathway through Science to Medicine
Students often ask if they can study a Bachelor of Science to enter graduate medicine, and the answer is YES!  Students who complete the Bachelor of Science* at Monash University with the required prerequisite units and achieve a minimum 70+ WAM (Weighted Average Mark), may be offered the opportunity to undertake an interview (Multiple Mini Interview – MMI) and Situational Judgement Test (SJT) as part of the application process.
There is no requirement for Monash Science students to undertake the GAMSAT as entry is an internal process.  Students keen on studying science as a pathway, are encouraged to browse this useful link – Science as a Pathway to Medicine.

*Can also include Science double degrees, the Bachelor of Science Advanced Research and Bachelor of Science Advanced – Global Challenges

Master of Medical Ultrasound
The Master of Medical Ultrasound at Monash University is a three-year post-graduate course, designed for students wishing to become accredited Sonographers.  Sonographers operate ultrasound equipment to acquire, interpret and selectively record anatomical images, physical data and real-time physiological information for medical diagnostic purposes in conjunction with Medical Practitioners, click here to read more about it: Your Career – Sonographer

Applicants will generally be graduates of a degree program in Radiography or equivalent.

Applicants holding degrees in related disciplines (such as Medicine, Nursing, Biomedical Sciences, Radiation Therapy, Nuclear Medicine or other Health Sciences) are assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Find out more: Master of Medical Ultrasound at Monash

New Courses at Federation University Berwick campus
The following courses will be offered by Federation University at its Berwick campus from 2024:

• Bachelor of Engineering (Civil) (Honours)
• Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical and Information Engineering) (Honours)
• Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical) (Honours)
• Bachelor of Speech Pathology (Honours) 

Students are encouraged to browse the above links and apply through VTAC if interested.

Master of Physiotherapy Practice
La Trobe University offers a two-year Master of Physiotherapy Practice at both the Bundoora and Bendigo campuses.  Eligibility to apply for this program requires applicants to:

• have successfully completed any undergraduate degree within the last five years and
• have completed tertiary-level subjects in musculoskeletal anatomy (two units) and human physiology (one unit)

Tertiary-level subjects in neuroanatomy, pathophysiology, psychology, pharmacology, evidence-based practice, research methods or statistics, determinants of health, human movement, biomechanics, communication or education are also desirable.

New Bachelor of Cyber Security
Commencing in 2024, RMIT is offering its new Bachelor of Cyber Security three-year degree.  This course has been designed to equip students with the specialist knowledge and expertise to troubleshoot, analyse, design, support and provide cyber security solutions.

The VCE prerequisites are:

• Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English other than EAL or at least 30 in English as an Additional Language (EAL)
• Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 20 in one of Maths: General Mathematics, Maths: Mathematical Methods or Maths: Specialist Mathematics.

Pathways @ RMIT
RMIT has a landing page for anyone who is considering pathway options.  It is a handy tool to find out what suitable courses students may think about if they are fearful of not having the correct prerequisites or ATAR.

Visit Find your pathway to study at RMIT

Apprenticeships

Automotive Apprenticeships and the BMW Group
The automotive industry is evolving at a rapid rate and with it the need in the way it attracts, trains and skills its future workforce. This is not just another automotive apprenticeship, NextTech is at the forefront of automotive technician development and where traditional methods meet the future of technological industry advancement.

Students are encouraged to browse NextGen Jobs and familiarise themselves with the opportunities on offer. Should students be keen on finding out more, they are encouraged to complete this form and NextGen will be in contact with them.

Open Day
NextGen Jobs and BMW Group Australia invite you to their BMW #NextTech Careers Open Day to learn all about the BMW #NextTech apprenticeship program and the 2024 intake which is recruiting now.  This is an exciting opportunity for those who are interested in pursuing a career with BMW to take a tour of their state-of-the-art Melbourne BMW dealership and to hear from BMW Group Australia’s Aftersales Director Brett Hocking and current #NextTech apprentices on where a BMW career can take you.

When: Thursday 26 October, 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Where: Melbourne BMW – 209 Kings Way, South Melbourne

Scholarships

Scholarships for entrepreneurship and innovation
If you are passionate about starting your own business or changing the world, you might be interested in scholarships for entrepreneurship and innovation. These scholarships not only offer financial support but also provide invaluable mentorship and networking opportunities.

What do they offer?
Entrepreneurial scholarships usually offer more than just monetary aid. They are a nod of recognition to your creative spirit and a vote of confidence in your ability to make a positive impact in the world. These scholarships are designed to fuel your passion, offering resources that can transform your innovative ideas into tangible ventures.

While financial aid is undoubtedly a significant perk, many entrepreneurial scholarships go the extra mile by offering mentorship programs, networking opportunities, and access to additional resources. These experiences can be invaluable in refining your ideas and connecting with like-minded individuals who share your passion.

Who can apply?
With so many scholarships available, it is crucial to narrow down the options that align with your specific entrepreneurial or innovative goals. Some scholarships focus on specific industries like technology, healthcare or sustainable energy, while others encourage a broader scope of creativity. Take the time to research and apply for scholarships that resonate with your vision.

When applying for entrepreneurial scholarships, remember to highlight not only your academic achievements but also your entrepreneurial spirit. Showcase any innovative projects, initiatives, or experiences that demonstrate your commitment to driving positive change.

Scholarships for entrepreneurship and innovation
The following may be of interest:

• Jane M. Klausman Women in Business Scholarship (International): The Jane M. Klausman Women in Business Scholarship program helps women pursue undergraduate and master’s degrees in business management and overcome gender barriers from the classroom to the boardroom.
• QUT Budding Entrepreneur Scholarship: These scholarships are to support budding student entrepreneurs and engage their passion for entrepreneurial action in the for-profit or for-purpose space.
• UTS Ivany Foundation Entrepreneurship Scholarship: This Scholarship aims to support aspiring entrepreneurs undertaking entrepreneurship studies at the UTS Business School.
• Curtin Business Innovation Scholarship: The Business Innovation Scholarship has been developed by Curtin University to encourage and support students who have chosen to study in the field of business information systems.
• Dell Transforming Lives with Technology Scholarship: The Dell Transforming Lives with Technology Scholarship provides support to a female student commencing study at Griffith University for an undergraduate information technology degree. The scholarship is aimed at students who foster the will to have a positive impact on the world.

Once you have secured an entrepreneurial scholarship, embrace it wholeheartedly. Engage with mentors, attend networking events and utilise resources to refine your entrepreneurial skills.
You can find more scholarships and tips on the Study Work Grow website here.

Medical Imaging Courses in Victoria in 2023

Medical imaging technologists operate X-ray and other imaging equipment, such as MRI and Ultrasound, to produce radiographic images that are used in the diagnosis and subsequent management of disease or injury.  Below are links to the specialised medical imaging areas, some of which are detailed in the Good Universities Guide: Nuclear Medicine Technologist, Medical Imaging Technology and useful links – So, you want to be a Sonographer? and Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences at Monash

In Victoria students can study specific medical imaging courses (also known as medical radiography or medical radiations or sonography) at the following universities:

University Snapshot – Charles Sturt University (CSU)

• The history of Charles Sturt University dates back to 1895 but CSU was formally incorporated on 19 July 1989 and is one of Australia’s newer universities.
• Charles Sturt University has three Faculties which comprise of several schools and centres for specific areas of study and research including:
  • Faculty of Arts and Education
  • Faculty of Business, Justice and Behavioural Sciences
  • Faculty of Science and Health
• CSU has campuses in Albury-Wodonga, Bathurst, Dubbo, Orange, Port Macquarie and Wagga Wagga as well as various campuses that offer specialist courses, such as theology, education, terrorism and security studies and policing. These include Canberra, Goulburn, Manly and Parramatta
• CSU offers a range of accommodation options to students across six campuses.
• CSU offers a broad range of courses including postgraduate studies.
• Commencing in 2021, Charles Sturt University and Western Sydney University partnered to create a new Joint Program in Medicine. It is a five-year undergraduate entry Doctor of Medicine based in Orange, New South Wales.
• Some other courses that may be of particular interest include:

• • Bachelor of Communication (with Specialisations in Media, Journalism etc.)
  • Bachelor of Dental Science
  • Bachelor of Pharmacy
  • Bachelor of Physiotherapy
  • Bachelor of Veterinary Biology / Bachelor of Veterinary Science
  • Master of Terrorism and Security Studies

Job Spotlight – How To Become A Virtual Assistant

Virtual Assistants (or VAs) can provide all the services that an office assistant can, from clerical work to marketing, web design, and bookwork, but work remotely instead of on-site. VAs are particularly in demand from online businesses, entrepreneurs, and smaller or mid-size businesses who may not want or have space for the support on-site – but there is really no limit to who you could end up working for.

If you are motivated and resourceful, want a job with lots of flexibility and are happy to get your work done in your pyjamas, this could be a dream career for you.

If you have these skills, you could make a great Virtual Assistant

• Excellent communication and IT skills
• Reliable, accountable, and trustworthy
• Able to multitask effectively and work well under pressure without supervision
• A confident ideas person and a great problem-solver

What tasks can I expect to do?
Roles vary depending on your employer’s needs, but duties could include:

• Carrying out basic administrative jobs, such as responding to emails, scheduling meetings, booking travel and accommodation, organising calendars or minuting meetings
• Preparing spreadsheets, keeping accurate online records or creating presentations
• Performing market research, building databases or helping with recruitment
• Managing and updating social media accounts, scheduling content or providing customer service

Where do Virtual Assistants work?
You will be doing almost all of your work indoors, and of course, it will be done remotely. This means you will need to have reliable access to a computer and a stable internet connection. On the plus side, you can do your work from nearly anywhere – including your home, your favourite café or the library.

What kind of lifestyle can I expect as a Virtual Assistant?
Part-time and casual work is very common for Virtual Assistants, giving you lots of flexibility in how you structure your day. You will most likely be working normal business hours but if you are an early bird or night owl, you might even be able to negotiate your own hours.  Most Virtual Assistants can expect to earn an average salary throughout their career.  Demand for Virtual Assistants is growing, as small businesses and entrepreneurs often look to more cost-effective services than retaining on-site employees, and advances in technology make remote work easier and more effective.

How to become a Virtual Assistant

There are no formal requirements for becoming a VA, but finishing high school and completing other training or qualifications may help you get a foot in the door more easily.

Step 1 – Study English, Maths and IT at secondary school.
Step 2 – Consider undertaking a traineeship or obtaining a relevant qualification, such as in business, IT or design.
Step 3 – Find work experience in an office environment.
Step 4 – Ensure you have all the necessary equipment and a comfortable working space. This might include a computer or tablet, internet connection, mobile phone, headset, video camera and any mandatory software.
Step 5 – Start networking. This will help you make contacts, find clients and build up a database of service providers you can call on if you need their skills.

Find out more here:

• VA Institute Australia
• Society of Virtual Assistants UK
• Association of Virtual Assistants USA
• Indeed

Resources

STEM Hub
Stem Hub is a digital platform connecting students and industry.  The hub is open to all university students and graduates from any university.  Students who sign up get access to leading industries and potential future employers.

Current senior students planning to study science, technology, engineering, and/or mathematics are encouraged to browse this link and flag this platform as a valuable resource once at university.

Good Universities Guide
Students can search over 400 different occupations narrowed down by the field or type of work they would like to do in the future, explore university courses and compare ratings for undergraduate degrees, www.gooduniversitiesguide.com.au

Course Seeker
Students can explore university courses for each state on the one website and can research courses, prerequisites, selection criteria and ATAR profiles for the 2024 intake, www.courseseeker.edu.au/

Australian Apprenticeship Pathways
You will be able to undertake apprenticeship aptitude tests, find local apprenticeship and group training centres, and learn about different trade occupations, www.aapathways.com.au

Four steps to finding an apprenticeship or traineeship
Australian Apprenticeships Pathways has developed a fantastic four-step process for students to follow when seeking an apprenticeship or traineeship, www.aapathways.com.au

My Skills
You can search for and explore vocational courses across Australia, learn about in-demand jobs and watch videos of young people who have completed vocational training, www.myskills.gov.au

Employment Resources
Do you need a Tax File Number (TFN)?  If you are planning to get a job or if you would like to study at university or TAFE next year, you will need a TFN. To start the application process, go to www.ato.gov.au

Find out about your rights at work
Learn about your rights, responsibilities, how to resolve issues in the workplace and rules about unpaid work, www.fairwork.gov.au

Learn about safety in the workplace
For your rights and responsibilities, visit www.safe-t1.net.au

How to stay safe – www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/young-workers