UQ student Gemma Ward knew she had come to the right place when a first year course lecturer told her that University was not about getting the right answers but about asking the right questions.
“In other words, Dr John Harrison was telling us that UQ was not about learning what to think, but learning how to think,” she said.
Ms Ward is the valedictorian at the 6pm UQ ceremony for Faculty of Arts and Social and Behavioural Sciences graduands at the UQ Centre, Union Road, St Lucia on Friday, July 24.
Her then mentor Dr Harrison is a lecturer in the UQ School of Journalism and Communication (SJC).
Ms Ward will graduate with a Bachelor of Communication (Public Relations) degree, and secured employment with Cole Lawson Communications in January after undertaking an internship with the Brisbane agency as part of her University program.
“Any university can teach you how to write a media release,” she said.
“At UQ, we were taught how to think at a higher, more strategic level. This has positioned us well to think ahead of the industry.”
Ms Ward, formerly of Yeppoon, said she enjoyed her study at UQ.
“Communications is quite a broad field of study, so I’ve been lucky to meet so many exciting personalities during my time at both the St Lucia and Ipswich campuses.”
“My sister Megan also studied at UQ, completing a Bachelor of Social Work in 2004.
“The opportunities, campus life, and resources UQ offered were always its selling points for me. And I guess the sandstone helped a little too.”
She completed her final three courses while working full time.
“Who needs sleep?” she said.
Ms Ward said her valedictory speech would remind her fellow graduands about the importance of staying true to the spirit of the undergrad they once were.
“But I will be avoiding clichés like the plague,” she said.
“Personally, I think we’re all going to feel a little nervous on Friday night. After all, it’s been several years since we’ve voluntarily been on campus on a Friday after 2pm.”
Her family will travel from central Queensland to attend the graduation.
Media: Jan King 0413 601 248
