Kaitlin Loeffler-White, 21 October, 2024 | L – R: Tara McCarthy (Bachelor of Business/Bachelor of Design) and Jemma Curtis (Bachelor of Business/Bachelor of Laws (Honours))
In their final years of study and careers already well underway, this year’s Su Mon Wong scholars, Tara McCarthy and Jemma Curtis, say that the Scholarship has transformed their career trajectories, providing a springboard into future possibilities.
“From the moment I applied, I knew this scholarship was more than just financial support—it was a recognition of my efforts, aspirations, and potential in marketing. Reflecting on the past year, the opportunities that have unfolded are nothing short of extraordinary,” says Tara.
“Last December, I was in Sydney for the second week of my Canva internship when I had the chance to do the live interview for the Su Mon Wong Scholarship. Fast forward to today; I am set to graduate in November with a Business Marketing and Industrial Design degree, and I look forward to starting my dream job at Canva on their Design Operations team next year,” she shared.
For Jemma, receiving the scholarship has opened many pathways and growth opportunities.
“I would not have been able to complete my work experience at the marketing agency, Blue Palm Digital, without the financial support of the scholarship,” she said.
Both scholars said working with mentors as part of the Su Mon Wong was also a career-changing experience.
"The opportunity to work alongside an industry mentor initially drew me to apply for this scholarship last year,” Jemma shared.
Jemma credits her mentor, Bec, for providing the guidance and support that has been instrumental in shaping her career.
“I’ve grown so much under Bec’s mentorship,” she said.
“Bec has shared her extensive industry knowledge, provided invaluable feedback, and pushed me to think critically and creatively.”
“From debriefing assignment results with me to helping me write my resume and offering guidance on career decisions, Bec’s insights have been transformative.”
“Her mentorship has enhanced my technical skills and instilled confidence in me to pursue opportunities I once thought were beyond my reach.”
Tara said that a key part of her success thus far was the support and guidance she received from her mentor, Sam.
“My mentor, Sam, has been incredibly supportive throughout this journey. His transition from a senior corporate role to launching his own marketing agency inspired me to think bigger about my own entrepreneurial aspirations.”
“Our discussions have been invaluable, offering insights into marketing, business strategies, and life beyond university. Sam’s mentorship has instilled in me a sense of confidence and has shaped my vision for the future,” says Tara.
In addition to the financial and mentorship opportunities, both students said several additional moments highlighted their scholarships.
Tara’s highlights include speaking opportunities – nationally and overseas.
“This scholarship has given me the confidence to seize every opportunity that came my way at QUT. From a semester exchange in the Netherlands to speaking at TEDxQUT in October, the past four years have been filled with rich academic, cultural and professional experiences,”
“One of the highlights was representing QUT on the global stage at the L’Oreal Brandstorm International finals in London. Competing alongside my peers, we developed a wellness product line for women experiencing peri-menopause, pushing the boundaries of our marketing and innovation skills.”
“Another pivotal moment in my journey was presenting a guest lecture on Corporate Intrapreneurship and Entrepreneurship to first-year business students.”
“Sharing my knowledge and seeing their enthusiasm made me appreciate how far I’ve come and how much more I can contribute to the next generation of marketers.”
Jemma says a highlight for her was sharing her experiences with younger students through participating in student club, AMPed Society and the opportunity to contribute to QUT research in the field of marketing.
