Senior Scholars Symposium 2024

This year’s Senior Scholars Symposium was another fantastic day out with Scholars and staff at Mt Stromlo – with stunning views of kangaroos, a crisp autumn breeze, and excellent food for thought.

The morning session was run by master facilitator, Penny Nesbitt, Senior Consultant - Leadership, Culture and Employee Experience ANU - a session focused on identifying strengths and Scholars finding themselves “at their best” to put them in the driving seat of their careers.

After a delicious lunch buffet, Scholars enjoyed a fast-paced round robin session facilitated by Research Fellow Richard Burns, with thought provoking questions on topics ranging from ice cream preferences to “what was the most difficult meeting you have ever had” or “if you could be one colour, what would it be?”

There were lively conversations, laughter and open debate!

The afternoon career pathways panel saw a highly engaging discussion with 4 excellent panel members: 

• Lara Douglas, Senior Associate, Sparke Helmore Lawyers, 
• Cathy Fussell, Director - Academic Partnerships, Australian Public Service Commission,  
• Our very own Tuckwell Alum Steph Barton (2019), Bachelor of Laws (Honours), Bachelor of Political Science. Sententia Consulting Graduate and 
• Dr Brett Scholz, Senior Research Fellow (and our newest Tuckwell Fellow) in the School of Medicine and Psychology, ANU College of Health and Medicine.

Each panel member generously shared their own unique career experiences and journey – highlighting how there is no “one right path.” Common themes included the importance of prioritising mental health, playing to one's strengths, digging deep and the importance of taking career breaks, as well as having transparency and building trust in the work environment and genuinely engaging with the work we are doing.

Tuckwell Scholars are provided career support from day one on campus right through to their senior years when they are about to transition from university into the wider world and embark on their careers.

Applications for 2025 Tuckwell Scholarships are now open and will close April 8. More info