What work did you complete in your internship?
I worked for the Victorian Electoral Commission. They run local and state elections in Victoria. They also collect fines for those who fail to vote.
I worked in the finance and corporate governance team. Working in the accounts. I did some accounts payable, accounts receivable, prepayments, accruals, bank reconciliation and month-end work. Great place to start my accounting career!!! Learned heaps.
What's your background and how did you find out about the Stepping Into program?
I grew up in the Melbourne CBD then moved to live in the suburb. I graduated high school and two certificates 2 in Business and Certificate 3 in Events. I started working in a local green grocery shop at the age of 14 then finished up. I’m currently employed at Coles and started working at the age of 15. I’m also currently volunteering at Vision Australia and started in 2021. I completed the Stepping into Program internship (VEC) in mid-2021. It was my first paid office job and related to my degree. Now I’m currently employed in a small company as a junior accountant and office assistant (thank you to Stepping Into Program experience).
I was in my first year of university and I was so worried in two years’ time that I wouldn’t be able to find an employment-related to my degree. I was worried that it would be difficult for me to find a job with a disability until my university posted an announcement on the online notice board about AND and the support they provided for people living with a disability. I have attended multiple PACE mentoring programs, and it was life-changing. I was recommended to participate in the Stepping Into Program by my mentors as I was in my penultimate year.
How did the Stepping Into program meet your expectations/differ from your expectations?
The Stepping Into Internship helped me gain valuable office skills and accounting skills which is a great skill to start my accounting career.
It felt less worrying to know that I had support from Australian Network on Disability’s Programs Team. It was definitely the part where AND would be supporting me throughout the program that attracted me in applying. It was a great support to have especially when this was my first ever internship.
How did you feel working in a team that provided adjustments?
It was the best. All my colleagues were willing to adjust and support. I felt I was so lucky and being loved. Everyone was looking out for me and adjusting for me. I really love the fact that they were so patient and was being so creative in ways in making things easier for me. I really like how they used analogies that helped me learn and understand quicker.
Can you share with us something you’ve learned or found interesting during your placement?
What surprised me the most about my internship was that what you learned in university or tertiary education does helps, but you can also learn more on the job so do not be worried about starting a job that you feel you are not quite ready.
My next step in my career after the internship is to get more experience and slowly build up in my accounting career.
Three pieces of advice for yourself when you were applying?
Disclaimer: The author contributed to this story in his personal capacity. The views, opinions and languages expressed belong solely to the author, and not necessarily to the Australian Network on Disability, the author's employer, organization, committee, or other group or individual.