Alumni in Focus: Kay Ross
Bachelor of Arts graduate Kay Ross has worked in administration and marketing across the arts, tourism and local government sectors. In 1993 she moved to Hong Kong and built her own business as a copywriter and editor of English-language marketing content. Also passionate about theatre and improvisation, Kay has performed in many productions in Hong Kong.
On top of this, Kay has developed a personal development card deck called 'The Playground of Possibilities', a collection of questions that encourage people to challenge their own perceptions of themselves and choose bigger opportunities.
What are your hobbies?
Performing improv, reading, learning, participating in personal development workshops, sewing things by hand, binging Netflix, playing Scrabble, travelling.
Favourite place to eat when in Adelaide?
I confess I haven’t been back to Adelaide for over 20 years, but I do remember that I used to love browsing around Central Market and eating in one of the cafés there.
If I could go back to my University days I would...
Have studied Anthropology and Linguistics in the first year of my BA, alongside French and Drama.
I can’t get enough of...
Hugs. Before Covid, I used to regularly go out in public, hold up a Free Hugs sign, and give / receive hugs.
Something you are grateful for?
My brother and two sisters.
If I could pursue a different career I would...
Be a sign-language interpreter, a museum curator or a philosopher. When I was 11, my ambition was to become a neurosurgeon.
The most valuable lesson I have learned is...
That my past does not determine my present or future.
I cannot get through the day without...
Reading a book.
Three words your closest friends would use to describe you?
Courageous, creative, kind.
Your definition of success?
Hmm, this is the hardest question. To me, success means that I am at peace with my life and my history; that I love myself and the life I’ve created for myself; that I have friends and family members who love me; that I use my skills to serve and inspire others; that I feel connected to a purpose bigger than myself, and that (to quote Steve Jobs) I have made a little dent in the universe.
Your career path in two sentences or less?
I’ve never had (or planned or wanted) a conventional career path, climbing the corporate ladder. I’ve always been open to unexpected opportunities in industries that interest me.
Biggest career highlight?
Being the Publicity Officer for the 1986 Adelaide Festival Fringe.
How I relax?
I sit on my living-room couch and read a hard-copy book.
When I get home the first thing I do is...
I take off my mask.
The biggest risk I have taken?
Moving from Adelaide to Hong Kong in September 1993, with no job and no grand plan.
A misconception about you?
That I’m always happy, confident and successful.