Dairy Australia’s manufacturing scholarship let four passionate graduates work with leading companies and industry experts to learn about the dynamic and innovative dairy industry.
Claire Walpole, Ailsa Rajasingham, Alexandra Kury and Kate McMaster undertook the 10-week program that involved time in the classroom and work placements at sponsoring companies: Warrnambool Cheese and Butter, Murray Goulburn, Bega Cheese, Barossa Valley Cheese, Yarra Valley Dairy, Fonterra, Burra Foods, Parmalat, Lion and Coles.
Dairy Australia program manager Mani Iyer said he was delighted two of the graduates had already found jobs in the industry.
Alexandra Kury, who accepted a position at dairy manufacturer Mondelez International, said she had so much fun during the intensive program that it made learning “…easy and enjoyable and no question asked was ever deemed silly in any way”.
“Spending time at different factories and head offices allowed me to observe a broad range of career prospects and think about where I could potentially fit into the dairy industry,” Ms Kury said.
“I would definitely encourage any new graduates to apply for the scholarship because it gave us exposure to an entire industry and, at university, you just don’t get that kind of experience.”
Ailsa Rajasingham, who has taken a job with Burra Foods, said it’s the “…perfect bridging program as it gives you the kind of exposure and experience that puts you ahead of other graduates.”
Industry was also excited to be involved in the program, for example, Murray Goulburn innovations manager Alysha Curtis said it was a “…perfect opportunity for MG to get exposure to high-calibre students that we may not get the exposure to otherwise”.
Ms Curtis said programs like these could help students effectively plan their career in dairy.
