Two young aspiring accountants have secured jobs through a partnership between USC and a leading Hervey Bay accounting firm.

Work experience in her final year of USC’s Bachelor of Commerce led to a full-time position as a graduate accountant for 22-year-old Emmalynn Healy at Drew Stephenson Chartered Accountants.

Another USC student, 18-year-old Jared Pacey from Maryborough, is a familiar face at the firm after securing a part-time position soon after he started his Accounting degree at USC Fraser Coast last year.

USC Fraser Coast Lecturer in Accounting Dr Ratna Paudyal said the partnership was a win-win situation for USC, students and local business.

“When students work within their chosen discipline they enhance their employability skills and have the opportunity to see the relevance of theoretical knowledge in a practical way,” Dr Paudyal said.

“This ultimately enhances their problem-solving, critical thinking, communication, collaboration and other skills, and establishes important links with professional networks.”

Company director Drew Stephenson said the partnership created practical work experience and potential job opportunities for local USC students and graduates.

“This allows the region to retain local talent and gives our business an opportunity to evaluate the student’s skills in a practical environment,” he said.

“In Emmalynn’s case, we were impressed by the work ethic, training and skills that she displayed during work experience and this led to the offer of full-time employment.”

Emmalynn, who will formally graduate from USC at a Fraser Coast ceremony in May, said she was and thrilled to start her career so soon after completing her degree in November last year.

The former Urangan State High School student said she developed an affinity for accounting after excelling in the subject in senior.

“Accounting excites me as it is different for every situation,” she said.

Emmalynn advised other students take advantage of available opportunities to gain work experience in their study areas.

“It opens your eyes to what you are working to achieve and allows you to take a real-life view of your studies and apply what you have learned to improve your knowledge and results,” she said.

The camping enthusiast said she was pleased to have the option to complete her degree at USC’s Fraser Coast campus and to find graduate employment in her home town.

“I have been able to stay with my family and partner and not have to give up the Hervey Bay lifestyle that I love.”

— Clare McKay