August 28, 2024

Meet Student Careers & Employability Coordinator, Charisma Maharaj

Meet Charisma, the Careers and Employability Coordinator for all UOW Metro Campuses. Charisma holds a Bachelor’s degree in Laws and Business, where she began her career as a Paralegal in Debt Recovery and Civil Litigation before moving into Banking at Macquarie Group. It was her subsequent role in recruitment that ultimately led her to her current position focused on guiding students towards successful career paths. 

What inspired you to become a Careers and Employability Coordinator? 

I have a degree in Bachelor of Laws and Business. My journey started as a Paralegal in Debt Recovery and Civil Litigation, I then moved into Banking at Macquarie Group, but it wasn’t until I started a role in Recruitment that I found my passion in helping people. 

What do you find most enjoyable and fulfilling in your role? 

I have always been passionate about helping people find roles that suit them best. Enjoying your job is crucial, as it takes up a significant part of your day, so it's important to pursue something you're passionate about. It is such a privilege to provide Careers and Employability services to university students, especially since such support wasn't available to me when I was in university, which left me with limited career direction. 

What challenges do students face in their job search, and what is your advice to them? 

Many postgrad students lack workplace experience or experience in their field of study, making it challenging to find suitable jobs. I encourage all students to seek casual jobs, volunteer work, or internships while studying to enhance their employability after graduation.  These opportunities help students develop relevant skills and gain a realistic understanding of their chosen industry. Additionally, some postgrads discover that they may not enjoy working in their degree-related field, which can be valuable insight.  

What would you recommend to international students entering the job market in Australia?

I recommend that students utilise the career services available at UOW to tailor their CVs and cover letters to the Australian market. Additionally, they should take full advantage of UOW events, such as workshops and networking opportunities, as these can provide job prospects and clarify any uncertainties about the Australian job market.

It is also important for international students to also familiarise themselves with work rights and protections available to them in Australia. Such information can be found on VEVO, Fair Work Ombudsman and Department of Education websites. 

What kind of workshops do you offer to students?

I present interactive workshops on campus featured around soft skills, personal branding, and tips for workplace preparation. These workshops allow students to ask questions and gain practical tips for their career development. 

Additionally, I organise networking events for students, such as an industry panels and careers expos where students can engage with potential employers, ask industry experts questions related to their industry of choice, and build valuable connections to help secure jobs. 

How do you help students transition from academic research to practical, industry-focused roles? 

I help students tailor their CVs and cover letters to their specific industries and jobs that they are interested in applying for. Students can also contact me regarding applications for casual jobs, internships, graduate positions, and volunteer work to enhance their skills and industry knowledge. I also offer personalised consultations on various topics, addressing individual needs and concerns.

All these opportunities provide students the ability to enhance their skills and gain knowledge of industries making it easier for them to transition to practical industry focused roles.

Charisma is based at the Sydney CBD Campus every Wednesday. She’s available for one-on-one consultations, drop-in sessions Wednesdays 9.00 am- 4.30 pm. Charisma also runs a variety of careers workshops. Keep an eye on upcoming student newsletters and news on campus for workshop dates and times!