About you
My name is Jessica and I’m a Gurang Gurang woman in my second year of the Policy Futures Graduate Program. I grew up in Bundaberg and moved to Brisbane at 18 years old to study for a Bachelor of Arts (majoring in Geography and International Relations) at the University of Queensland. During my final semester of university, I applied for the Policy Futures Graduate Program and was privileged to be selected as part of the 2023 cohort.
My first rotation was at the Reform, Strategy and Delivery Office in the Department of Resources, my second rotation was at the Hydrogen and Future Fuels Division in the Department of Energy and Climate, and my third rotation was at the Office of the Special Commissioner (Equity and Diversity) in the Public Sector Commission. I’ve been in amazing teams, have had the opportunity to learn from incredible leaders and have taken part in meaningful work throughout all of my rotations.
What interested you most about the program?
The Policy Futures Graduate Program appealed to me as a holistic graduate program that could offer me a variety of experiences and extensive training. Being a graduate is daunting and it was comforting to know that I could experience different departments, types of work and leadership styles within the program, as well as use this to inform future job hunting after the program ends.
How does the program fit into your long-term goals/career direction?
The program has provided me with immeasurable professional experience in such a short time, countless connections across so much of Queensland’s public sector and a holistic training program from a range of providers. The foundations I have received from the program have provided me with the confidence to embark on what I hope will be a fulfilling and long-term career in the public sector.
How was the recruitment process?
When I applied for the Policy Futures Graduate Program in 2022, there was just one stream for all applicants. This is a very general, mainstream process and we’ve worked hard to create a First Nations Pathway that is still rigorous and challenging but enables other First Nations graduates to thrive throughout the recruitment process.
Do you have any tips for First Nations Graduates thinking about applying?
The Policy Futures Graduate Program is a diverse and inclusive program with so many opportunities for graduates. Be sure to utilise all resources provided to you throughout the recruitment process and most importantly, do not doubt yourself and what you can bring to the table - the Public Sector would be privileged to have you!