Callum is an undergraduate student at the University of Queensland.  He is studying for a double degree in Science (biophysics major) and Maths (Data Analytics major).  He has two part-time research assistant jobs and a part-time Data Scientist role.

He is an avid musician in a band.

The general strategy for his peers and himself is to have a broad range of skills.  Many tertiary studies are focused on developing broad skills without necessarily becoming the mid or long term career focus.

It is important to focus on what you are passionate about while keeping a real-world focus. 

With the rise of technology comes an increase in the capability of Mathematicians and mathematics.  As computing power increases, then mathematics becomes more powerful and possible. Mathematicians and physicists leverage the increased computer power to create new algorithms and capabilities.  Mathematics is becoming more mainstream.

Look at yourself (interest and skills) – what are you good at and where can you maximise the requirements from the marketplace?

Cutting edge technology gradually defines the new roles that companies open up.  However, technology takes longer to mature than is perceived in the market.  An example of this is machine learning.  Many people are talking about it, but few are skilled in the area.

Future-proofing is an ongoing challenge for all of us.  New areas are only new for a short period.  Most required skills training is on offer.  What is missing is the correct and up to date career guidance.  The University is not good at helping students differentiate themselves in the market.

The ability to specialise or stand out in the crowd is something that is up to the individual.

People and communication skills are not a focus for Universities.  It is a skill that each individual has to pursue with purpose.  The essential communication skills include how the business and the social world works.

University is becoming increasingly competitive.  Callum recommends that the most significant change (from his personal approach) is to take University study seriously from day one and give it everything you can.  

He feels prepared for the future but this is a combination of his initiative and the opportunities he has received at the University. Remote learning forced onto students by the COVID-19 pandemic has made balancing initiative and opportunity afforded by university study more difficult.

Try and do something you want to enjoy.  If you are not interested in what you are studying or working at, then it will be hard to excel.  Passion is essential.  The competition in the marketplace now between graduates requires differentiation, excellence and passion.

·        Be adaptable

·        Enjoy what you are doing

·        Be alert and willing to change

·        Be willing to learn and pivot