Community development manager
A Bachelor of Arts prepared Emma McIlroy for a career helping organisations make tangible differences to their communities.
Key facts
Career: Community development manager, Be Collective
Programme: Bachelor of Arts
Subjects: Media, Film and Television; Politics and International Relations
"I went to high school in Auckland and loved media, history, drama and sociology. My passion for politics and international relations developed from there.
"After graduating, I worked in both non-profit and government sectors. I recently returned to the non-profit sector for social enterprise, Be Collective.
"Based in Melbourne, the role involves working with businesses and volunteer-involving organisations to mobilise goodwill and connect people with volunteering opportunities. It's amazing seeing business values transform through corporate volunteering.
Working with organisations who are making a tangible difference to their communities is genuinely rewarding. The value I add in my role comes from connecting businesses with organisations in their community.
"Focus on your strengths and what you find fascinating - allow yourself time to figure things out along the way. Try to diversify the subjects you take in your first semester so you can find what you are passionate about before you commit to a major.
"Keep an eye out for internships and part-time jobs that can give you a foot in the door. Find role models and mentors to look up to and talk to your lecturers! I promise you'll learn so much from those interactions."