The Murray River Study Hub recently caught up with its newest graduate, Arlo Davis. Arlo completed a Bachelor of Accounting at Flinders University while working for Murraylands accounting firm 3B Financial Services.
Our team sat down with him to look back on his experience with the Study Hub program and online study.
How did online study benefit you?
The most obvious benefit of studying online was not having the long drive to Adelaide three times a week. I could instead spend that time smashing out assignments and online quizzes, which gave me an edge over face-to-face students.
Another big benefit? Flexibility. My lecturers scheduled tutorials for online students later in the afternoon or early morning to fit around my working hours.
Even some of my peers living right next to campus were studying accounting online because of how flexible online study is around work and family commitments, it’s a no brainer!
Thanks to this flexibility, I could arrange fishing day trips to places like Carrickalinga and Wirrina Cove at short notice, and still get work done in the evening.
How did the Study Hub support you throughout your study?
I met with one of the student advisors several times to help me pick my elective subjects for the following year. They take the headache out of uni by helping to finalise your enrolment, pick elective subjects and secure work experience so you can focus on your studies.
What did you achieve during your time at university?
I topped five subjects in my first two years including all three second-year accounting topics. I also received subject prizes including the CPA Young Professionals Network Prize and the Keith Hancock Prize in Economics for Business as well as multiple Chancellor’s Letters of Commendation.
Tell us about the work experience you have undertaken in your field…
I am currently working for 3B Financial Services as a graduate accountant, working from an office at the back of the director’s house, with the goal of eventually getting an office in town.
What’s next for you after finishing uni?
This year I’m tackling the Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand program. This involves working in an accounting role for three years under the supervision of my boss, as well as completing nine subjects.
What advice would you give someone who wants to study online within the region?
When looking for work experience, employers like to hire people they are familiar with. If someone at your local sporting club is working in a field you’re interested in, it’s a good idea to approach them for work experience. My boss never asked to see my resume or cover letter because he already knew who I was through cricket.
When we asked our Program Manager Vanessa what she thought, she said “Arlo is what this program is about! He’s a keen learner and knew the career he wanted to pursue, but didn’t want to travel to Adelaide to study. Arlo has done so well and we couldn’t be prouder of him”.
If you are someone like Arlo, who’s looking to take advantage of the flexibility and work/life balance online study provides, consider studying online with the support of the MRSH here in the region. With SATAC applications currently open, you could start your dream degree as soon as March 2023 –spending more time on your hobbies, and less time commuting.
About to start your online study? Rest assured that our student advisors are around to chat with face-to-face, on the phone, or email – so you don’t need to face study dilemmas on your own.
We support anyone wanting to study post-secondary school education, regardless of who you’re studying with.
With access to campuses, student advisors and local business connections on your doorstep, why not give it a go?
If you’re looking for support, contact our student advisors today.
