Working while studying pays off
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Tahlia Phillips |
Juggling part-time study with full-time work is challenging, but it shows dedication and commitment that can help with your career.
When Tahlia Phillips relocated to Sydney with Hewlett-Packard, which is based in North Ryde, she embarked on a Master of Commerce (MCom) degree at Macquarie University. "I've always wanted to do a Masters degree and Macquarie was conveniently located and had a great reputation," says Phillips.
Work and study
Phillips has found that through Macquarie University's use of industry experts in the MCom in Marketing, she has gained a great deal of practical knowledge. She says Professor Bob Miller is the lecturer she has gained the most from. Miller spent 14 years as the General Manager-Marketing at Toyota and most Australians are familiar with his 20-year-running theme 'Oh, What a Feeling!'
"Professor Miller has taught me some key concepts that I have used in my role at Hewlett-Packard," Phillips says.
While Phillips' work life is demanding, the company has been very supportive of her study.
"If I have an exam they allow me to take a study day to prepare and sit for the exam," explains Phillips. "I wouldn't have been able to do the study without their support."
Career path
Philips has held various marketing roles at Hewlett-Packard over her seven years with the company, most recently two managerial roles in the marketing area.
"I believe that my study has complemented my career and shows dedication and focus," says Philips.
As Volume Business Marketing Manager, Phillips was responsible for Hewlett-Packard's marketing to small-medium business customers as well as managing a telesales team remotely. With frequent travel, Phillips often found herself missing face-to-face contact at University but she was still able to keep on top of her work and study.
Skills that will last a lifetime
Apart from learning the latest marketing theories and practises, Phillips has also gained a range of complementary skills.
"I have learned how to handle difficult situations and also how to implement leading technology and concepts into real life marketing campaigns," she says. "My postgraduate study has been extremely rewarding and while it has been challenging at times, it is something I will never regret."
A bright future
After seven years with Hewlett-Packard, Phillips is about to establish her own business, working with ANZ as a Mobile Lender. She believes her study will hold her in good stead in her new role. "I think I'll take the knowledge I've gained from my days at Macquarie University and use it for a very long time," says Phillips.
To find more about postgraduate studies in marketing visit the Division of Economic and Financial Studies' website: www.efs.mq.edu.au/postgraduate/coursework.htm