I have a degree - now what?

When I finished my Bachelor of Science from Australia National University I had absolutely no idea what to do for a career. I continued my training and did a Master's Degree in Science Coms, fell on my feet, and landed a rich career working in science media – I now own my own million dollar business publishing in STEM – science, technology, engineering, and maths.

There is a fallacy that postgrad degrees lead you to research – 75% of the time, it leads to careers elsewhere, whether that's industry, entrepreneurship or government – however those paths forward are far from clear. And in an environment where policy is aiming for jobs and growth, and STEM is a buzzword for both of the major political parties, what's missing is a clear idea of just where STEM degrees can take you.

I personally know people whose STEM degrees have led to prominent positions in politics, consultancies, not-for-profits, start-ups and big business. Just look at Scott Farquar or Mike Canon-Brookes from start-up success story Atlassian for inspiration. But the leaders in these fields – the go-getters who are forging their own paths – are not celebrated, visible role models for the students of today.

Which is why Refraction Media created postgradfutures.com. We want to create an inspiring future where STEM is seen as a powerful, creative, sought after career area – for women, international students, and other Australians. So when the next batch of graduates toast their matriculation, the road forward is already paved with the STEM success stories of the people who went before them.