Language and commerce a good mix

Commerce

Studying a language is already paying off in the world of business for Commerce graduate Carly McDonald.

After completing a triple major in International Business, Marketing and Management, Ms McDonald is now working as an International Market Research Officer with Joe White Maltings(a subsidiary of one of Australia's largest agricultural companies, ABB Grain Ltd).

"I'm pleased to have got a job so closely related to my qualifications," Ms McDonald said, "and through the cadetship, fortified a position in ABB prior to graduating."

The talented student also pursued Japanese language study during her time at the University of Adelaide. This now gives her a distinct advantage in her current job as her company directly deals with Japanese businesses.

"I'm often able to utilise my language skills for the business' Japanese clients, and it makes me feel more valuable to ABB," she said.

Ms McDonald's involvement with Japan can be traced back to her post-high school days when she went on a Rotary Youth Exchange to the country for 12 months. On her return, she became involved in the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards - first as a participant, and then as a committee member and leader. This involvement with Rotary culminated in 2004 with her becoming a member of the Rotary Club of Adelaide Light.

"In this club, members are involved in community activities in Adelaide, such as helping the Adelaide City Council with the parklands (clearing weeds and planting), and working with the St John's Church in our 'beds project' for those in need," Ms McDonald said.

Contributing to the community is still a priority for her as she continues to teach piano at the Novar Music Learning Centre despite her work commitments.

Ms McDonald's networking with ABB Grain began when she won a Management Cadetship at the company in the second year of her degree. The university's career fairs, recruitment services, and staff helped her obtain the coveted cadetship.

"Staff in the School of Commerce, like Chris Medlin, Lee Parker, and Christine Ho, have been very supportive in helping me attain both my academic and career pursuits," she said.

Ms McDonald's many qualities were also recognised last year through the Commerce Alumni Deloitte Scholarship. The scholarship is awarded for academic excellence and evidence of leadership abilities.

The $5000 scholarship is open to students entering into the final year of a full-time program within the School of Commerce at the University of Adelaide. More information is available from the School of Commerce, the Student Centre, and the Scholarships website:
www.adelaide.edu.au/scholarships/

Story by Sukhmani Khorana