Ilana Foster
I definitely appreciate the size of the group. It makes it easier to have that one-on-one...
Why did you take up the BBA?
I think five years in the same type of role within the organisation, it’s kind of gotten to me now – I’m not progressing, I’m not going up the ladder. I’ve always been told that I’m more than skilled to do positions that are higher than what I’m doing. But going into interviews, it’s very competitive. When I get feedback of not being successful, it’s basically always the same – you don’t have enough skills. Being over the age of 30 and going on 40, I feel like I haven’t really achieved that much; it’s been school, family, and then work. I think getting a higher education degree is very fulfilling and a good way to go career wise.
How do you see the BBA advancing your career?
I want to get a foot up in my career. In my role it’s more supportive and within administration. I think I’d like to move towards working in budgets, and maybe in the finance area, looking at where the funds can go and allocating resources.
How are you finding the degree so far?
Nerve-wrecking! I don’t know Sydney, I’m from the Torres Strait. It’s nerve-wrecking trying to find my way around, where I’ve got to go. I definitely appreciate the size of the group. It makes it easier to have that one-on-one relationship with your lecturers. It also makes it more personal, getting along with you class mates – we’re pushing each other and supporting each other to get through it. And the content is interesting. I don’t really face these types of subjects in the work that I do, so I’m learning quickly.
What is the best thing about the degree so far?
A really good aspect of this degree is because it’s Indigenous based, I’ve learned a lot more about Aboriginal Indigenous people, as opposed to me being a Torres Strait Islander. That’s been very interesting for me. The support system – the IHL, the Indigenous House of Learning, Jumbunna – the people that work there, they just makes you feel so comfortable, like you’re part of a family.
What would your advice be for someone who is looking at studying Business at UTS?
I would definitely recommend the BBA. Just from working through the first few blocks of this year, it’s made it a lot more apparent to me how unique this program is for Indigenous people. I’m just really glad I have the opportunity to take part in this course!
