Griffith University student Tessa McKinnon has landed a highly prized graduate position with the Reserve Bank of Australia, just months ahead of completing her Bachelor of Business degree at the end of this semester.
Tessa, a Griffith Business School student, was chosen from a competitive field of candidates seeking a graduate role with Australia’s central bank.
Tessa said the position was a significant first step in her career.
However, it’s a far cry from the early career plans of the talented student who is majoring in Economics and Supply Nework Management.
“I actually started university with plans to do a double degree in journalism and business, mostly because I loved to write,” said Tessa.
Economics best career path
“However, I got a taste for business when I started doing the books for my father’s business. After taking a gap year and working full-time, I went back to university and straight into a business degree. I found in my first year that economics stood out as the best career path for me.”
Tessa said the RBA posting, which she assumes in February, offers exposure to a broad range of disciplines in economics and finance.
“I am passionate about utilising my skills and knowledge to make a positive impact, and I think working for the RBA will give me the opportunity to pursue that passion.”
Sydney will be a change of pace for the student who was raised on acreage.
“I love the outdoors and grew up riding motorbikes and driving cars with my brother and dad, but I think I am ready to experience life in Sydney,” she said.
“My parents are incredible role models and I have been inspired by them to achieve greatness. Together they built a maintenance business which has been in operation for almost 30 years.
“From childhood I have worked extremely hard to make my parents and myself proud. In doing so I have developed a work ethic which has got me to where I am today.
“At this point, I am unsure of what the future holds. I don’t have a set career goal, however I know that as opportunities present themselves I will be ready to seize them.”