Akshita Jain: From Participant to Practeran

Akshita Jain, our Projects Admin's journey began when she was just a participant in one of our Practera programs. As an international student studying a Master of Business degree specialising in Supply Chain Management at Monash University, she wanted to secure a job in Australia to stay in the wonderful city of Melbourne. However, after she applied to many corporate positions and attended their information sessions, she realised she wasn't eligible for them as she didn't have Australian industry experience. Nevertheless, she was determined to find it.

On her quest for Australian industry experience, her friend suggested that she apply to Monash University's Business Opportunity Accelerator (BOA) program facilitated by a learning platform called Practera.?As the program offered “industry experience," Akshita jumped at the opportunity to do so.

"I applied immediately as it provided me with an opportunity to work firsthand with Australian businesses and exporters. I will get to act like a consultant and give them a solution; what would be better than that?”

"I got an email saying that I have been selected for the BOA program, and that was my first touchdown at Practera."

With every experience, there's always a lesson to be learnt. For Akshita, she had to become patient while working with other students who had different working styles and juggling other commitments along with this project.

"I had a?chance to interact with many students from multiple disciplines, backgrounds and universities. So, I realised that everyone has a unique way of working. Priorities are subjective, and so I learned to be patient with my team".

"As an organised person, I wanted to get everything done as soon as possible, especially because this program meant so much to me. So, I took the initiative and led throughout the project, which taught me immensely how to manage my expectations while working in a team."

Another lesson Akshita learnt is that when you put yourself out there, people will notice. So networking was a crucial part of securing her internship and her position in the end with Practera.

"Whilst I was participating in the BOA program, my client was Practera’s Programs Director, Hayley Bolding. I was always one step ahead, trying to connect with her and knowing what is happening with Practera. I put my best foot forward, and Hayley appreciated my efforts."

Currently, Akshita is part of the Industry Engagement Team with Lu Ngo (Projects Manager) and Evelina (Projects Director) driving the client experience and communications when they onboard a program.

"Eventually, I was onboarded as an intern and I was allowed to be a part of the Practera family! I've come full circle with my journey because I was always inquisitive and determined."