As CQUniversity Schools Outreach Coordinator, Melinda Mann is passionate about the future of young people. Every day she gets to talk one-on-one with high school students looking to find pathways into employment and study. It’s a role she relishes, not only because of the challenge it presents, but also the rewards when those students go on to succeed in their lives. Melinda also recently learned she’ll be seconded to the role of Deputy Director of the Student Life and Wellbeing Centre in August.
What was a recent highlight of your life?
I recently visited Canada as part of a University Study Tour with the National Centre for Student Equity in Higher Education. It was an incredible opportunity and I learned a lot about ‘student affairs’ in Canada and met a lot of people who are passionate about providing students with an empowering student experience. I also got to drive around the Canadian Rockies which was simply breathtaking and a place everyone should visit at least once in their life.
What do you love most about your role?
I love that my role allows me to be in classrooms with high schoolers, attend Committee Meetings, talk with parents, principals and teacher, meet with Indigenous organisations and community members. Most of all I love that I can sit with a child and have a genuine conversation about their hopes and dreams.
Are you a CQUni Alumni? If so, what did you graduate in?
I graduated from CQU in 2000 with a Bachelor of Business (Human Resources Management) and again in 2012 with a Masters of Learning Management. I am currently doing a PhD through CQUni (why would I go anywhere else?).
What is the best thing about your CQUni campus?
The best thing about the Rockhampton North campus is that it is in my hometown and on my homelands. As a Darumbal woman I am extremely blessed to be able to work, live and study on the land where my family have lived since time immemorial.
What is a motto or phrase that you live by?
“The standard you walk past is the standard you accept”. It’s important for me to know what I stand for, what I am willing to walk past and that I can do a U-turn if I want.
If you had no responsibilities where would you be right now?
Without hesitation I would be watching Netflix and listening to Spotify.
Who is the most famous person you’ve ever met?
Without sounding like a ‘groupie’, my best friend and I had lunch once with Wanya Morris from the R&B group Boyz II Men. Now that I think about it, it was probably the most random thing that has ever happened to me!
