As a nearly 19-year-old, I kicked off my Deakin journey back in January 1987 after being lucky enough to get a job as a Mailroom Clerk. This was probably mainly thanks to my Dad who had retired from the University as the first Sub Dean of Education, a couple of months earlier, not what you know but who you know!
Collating course material for off campus students, mailing these packages out and being on my feet all day was my induction to Deakin. My memories of these days were the wonderful people I worked with and the fun and exciting times that were had.
Working at Deakin has provided me with many wonderful opportunities in my work career, from working in Exams as a Coordinator and travelling to Penang and Singapore, to the corporate arm back in the day in Innovations & Projects Group (linked to Deakin Prime now DeakinCo), to the School of Engineering & Technology (now School of Engineering) and the School of Biological Sciences (now the School of Life and Environmental Sciences), to being a Residential Coordinator and living on Residence in a shoe box for three years, to a Student and Staff Support Coordinator within the Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment. I now find myself having done a full circle and I am back in Student Services as a Senior Faculty Timetabler.
In the mid 90’s, I also found time to become involved in the University Cricket Club. There I met another diverse range of staff, students and people from the greater area of Geelong where many friendships remain even though I am long retired from the game.
The thing that stands out the most over the last 37+ years is the lifelong friendships I have made with lots of staff and students, along with meeting many wonderful and interesting people.
I wish Deakin a very happy 50th birthday and look forward to working at here for a few more years!
