Graduate Trainee profile - Stella

Year joined

2009

Current position

Desk Officer, Sanctions and Transnational Crime Section, International Organisations and Legal Division.

What were you doing before joining DFAT?

Completing a Master of Laws (International Law/International Relations) at Flinders University, and undertaking a 2 month internship with the South Asia Human Rights Documentation Centre in New Delhi, India.

Why did you apply to DFAT?

Like many other graduates at DFAT, I had a desire to 'make a difference'. I wasn't sure how I was going to translate this idealism into real life results, but I knew that as a diplomat I would be engaged in interesting work, I would travel, I would learn to think strategically about Australia's interests and with some luck I would work on issues I was passionate about. And so far, my instincts have been right.

Do you speak any languages?

Yes, Bulgarian and very basic French.

What was the most challenging aspect of the recruitment/selection process?

The process is long. Over six months is spent crafting a respectable application, committing foreign and trade policy priorities to memory, undertaking written and psychometric tests and with any luck coming to Canberra for an interview and group exercise aimed at assessing how well you work in a team, problem solve, communicate and work under pressure. I found the day of the interview the most challenging because you find yourself on the verge of achieving a dream but before you do, you must confront self-doubt, nerves and the other interviewees who are equally qualified and eager.

Do you have any tips for applicants on how to approach the selection process?

Don't rush your initial application. Think about the selection criteria and make sure you demonstrate how your academic, work and volunteer experience meets these. When it comes to the written test, again make the time to brush up on your foreign and trade policy knowledge. The DFAT site is an invaluable source of information. If you don't know where to start, the Annual Report provides a good overview of the Department's work and objectives.

Finally, when you walk into the building on the day of your interview, remain confident and positive, knowing that you are just as suitable to the program as the other candidates. Allow your passion for foreign or trade policy to come through naturally.

Why would you recommend DFAT as a career?

I would recommend DFAT as a career because it is multifaceted, ever changing, surprising and challenging. In my current rotation I feel that all the hard work at university has paid off and I am finally contributing to work that I am passionate about and believe in. But DFAT also provides the unique opportunity to work in areas you have little experience in, or knowledge of, and discovering interests you never knew you had. Graduates are fortunate to rotate to different work areas every 6 months, allowing them to get a broader understanding of the Department and the complexity of its work. As a graduate you're also introduced to a large group of interesting, outgoing, fun graduates who become your instant friends. You will also get to work with great managers who challenge you, mentor you, build your confidence and skills, and hopefully inspire you. And of course, a career in DFAT provides the unique opportunity to work overseas for 3 years.