Networking — Maria Cox

What is your current role within your organisation? How long have you been in this role?

I am a Program Coordinator at YouthNow, where I have implemented a number of career projects and teaching programs. Last year I was asked to deliver a new Capacity and Innovation Fund Project on behalf of ACFE (Adult Community and Further Education). The aim is to increase access to work experience opportunities for vulnerable learners enrolled in adult community education programs.

What are some of your major achievements or awards?

I received a scholarship in 2013 to complete my Graduate Certificate in Career Development Studies at Australian Catholic University, Melbourne. The following year, I was a finalist in the Victorian Learn Local Awards for Outstanding Practitioner for my work integrating career theory and practice into adult community learning programs with vulnerable youth.

What was the career journey that brought you to this position and work role?

My professional career started as an English and humanities teacher in regional Victoria. After three years at Mildura High School, I decided to travel and worked as a nanny in Toronto, Canada. When I returned home, I took up a relief position at Erinbank College, which turned into an ongoing position.

When I was on maternity leave, a friend recommended me to fill a five-hour-a-week position teaching a Certificate in General Education for Adults (CGEA) to mature women. My part-time work in a jewellery store during my student days at the University of Melbourne came in handy as it provided useful ‘soft skills’ and industry experience to teach at Kangan Institute. This position grew and I resigned from the education department to teach and develop learning materials at Kangan.

After 10 years, I was seconded to my current employer, YouthNow, which was implementing a nationwide program supporting school and business partnerships. Since 2006, I have been supporting schools and their students to access quality career activities and counselling. Most recently, I have been based at Sunshine’s VISY Cares Hub, working across Melbourne’s west with its most vulnerable young people to help the, develop strong career development skills and find employment.

As a child, what did you want to do when you grew up?

My earliest career conversation was with Glen Waters, a fellow Grade 1 student at Avondale Heights Primary School, declaring that when we grew up we would be firefighters together.

What did you do or study upon leaving school?

I expected to do teaching when I finished my HSC but was offered a Bachelor of Arts place at the University of Melbourne. I took it up and went on to do an honours degree in English and history. I wrote my thesis on the WWI poetry published in Melbourne from 1914 to 1919, before completing a Diploma of Education. As a uni student I worked in retail and spent most of my spare time in second-hand bookshops.

Who or what was a major influence on your career choices?

From an early age I had always heard adults remarking how good I was with children, so I guess it was no surprise that I ended up being a teacher. I was a great reader and enjoyed learning and being at school. I had some wonderful teachers who inspired me and made me feel good about myself. I wanted to be like them — intelligent, supportive, cultural and friendly.

What were some major challenges in your career journey?

Working in a not-for-profit organisation offers remarkable opportunities, but the funding uncertainty can be a challenge. That being said, I feel very fortunate in my career journey to date.

What are you currently reading?

Jane Jackson’s Navigating Career Crossroads and Deborah O’Brien’s The Trivia Man.

What is the most memorable book you have read? Why?

Reading Norman Amundson’s Active Engagement was a revelation. Its creative and active methods to engage with clients helped me redesign my learning plans, but also reinforced the need to make every client feel that they ‘matter’ — regardless of where they have been and where they are now.

What is the movie you most enjoyed? Why?

Amélie, a French film starring Audrey Tautou — ‘times are tough for dreamers’.

What is your ‘dream job’? When do you plan to achieve the dream?

My dream job would be to teach career development or work with other career professionals to develop literacy and numeracy learning resources in a career development context. That said, I am mindful that it’s not so much about achieving the end goal as enjoying the journey along the way — picking up skills and knowledge and making a difference as I go.

What is a life dream that you would still like to achieve?

Further study and research in career development theory — particularly in areas of profound disadvantage and disability… or buy a Jeep (once the Hyundai is paid off).