Policy, research and communication assistant

"I am currently employed by Parliamentary Service as a policy, research and communication assistant.

"I work in the Electorate Office of a Member of Parliament and it is my duty to assist the Member with anything they need. This includes the preparation of briefings, writing press releases, managing appointments, attending events and dealing with constituents.

"You need to be able to assimilate information quickly, manage different projects simultaneously and have a good handle on communication both verbal and written.

"Having such diversity in a job is the most enjoyable part by far. Every single day brings a new challenge. On one day you will be on a ferry heading to Waiheke Island for a full day of constituency meetings and on the next you are preparing a briefing for a meeting the Mayor. It is a lot of work and a lot of fun.

"Critical thinking and analysis is one of the most important skills that come from studying Arts and attending university. The second most important skill in my role is the ability to present information in a simple, structured way that communicates the vital points swiftly and with ease.

"My passion had always been to work in politics. I knew that the main place I could get the knowledge I needed was from an Arts degree. When it comes to specialised subjects, it is better to get the knowledge from specialised teachers.

"A degree is not a career or a job. A degree is the promise of an individual who has knowledge. If you want to succeed, you must not only get the knowledge but also know how to use the knowledge and then apply that knowledge in life. Getting the knowledge is just the first step."