Soaring to lofty career heights

Working as a human resource (HR) specialist in her Colombian hometown of Bogotá, Laura Novoa decided to take her career to the next level with global workplace experience.

The former international student moved to Melbourne to complete a Master of Business (Industrial Relations/Human Resource Management) from Victoria University (VU) in 2015. She now works at Discovery Consulting in Melbourne as Human Capital Management Business Analyst.

"I was looking for a university that not only covered the business and strategic area of human resources, but also industrial relations and the law, and VU had the most accessible and complete program for it," Laura recalls.

"During my degree I learnt a lot about Australian businesses and the impact of global factors on the economy.

"VU also helped to boost my communication and analytical skills, and helped me to catch up with the current issues that HR professionals face in day-to day-operations.

"These skills and knowledge were of significant value for my employers."

During her degree Laura was a member of the Golden Key International Honour Society – a global student community that holds events and provides resources to help students enhance their leadership skills and access scholarships, career advice and work experience.

"Clubs and societies are a great way to meet people, practise and improve skills, create a professional network and have easier and cheaper access to development opportunities.

"I would definitely recommend VU to other students, not only for the quality of education but for the great pool of resources that the University offers to students to help them overcome the limitations often associated with being an international student."

Course studied

Master of Business (Industrial Relations/Human Resource Management). No longer offered: browse for Business courses.