3 minute read
Vivi is graduating from The Australian National University (ANU) College of Business and Economics (CBE) with a Master of Entrepreneurship and Innovation.
Before coming to Australia to study her Masters at ANU, Vivi completed a Bachelor of Communication, and worked in her home country of Indonesia in a number of diverse roles, including retail, education, real estate and entertainment.
“I decided to study at ANU because it offered the entrepreneurship and innovation course that I was looking for,” says Vivi.
“The University was one of just a few in Australia that offered this specific course. ANU stood out for its strong academic and research reputation – this sealed the deal for me.”
In this interview, Vivi reflects on her experience with the Master of Entrepreneurship and Innovation.
Q. What are some key skills and lessons you learned from the ANU Master of Entrepreneurship and Innovation?
The Master of Entrepreneurship and Innovation sharpened my research skills, fostering a deep understanding of complex business challenges. I discovered that building a successful business demands meticulous research and a willingness to go the extra mile. The program also emphasised the importance of innovative thinking, encouraging creative problem solving. It became evident that collaboration is a crucial skill, highlighting the power of diverse perspectives. Overall, the program provided both theoretical insights and practical experiences, revealing that entrepreneurship requires dedication, resilience, and a continuous pursuit of excellence to succeed in the complex business landscape.
Q. You participated in the CBE Internships course while you studied. How did completing an internship complement your studies?
Participating in CBE Internships was invaluable, as it allowed me to bridge theory and practice. Classroom learning provides a foundation, but the internship gave me real-world insights, enhancing my understanding of how theories apply in actual scenarios. I was fortunate to experience hands-on learning, reinforcing the importance of practical knowledge in complementing theoretical studies. Moreover, the internship equipped me with essential workplace skills, fostering a seamless transition from academia to the professional realm. The experience enriched my education and provided a well-rounded perspective on the dynamic interplay between theory and application.
Q. Did you have to overcome any challenges in your studies? How did you overcome them?
Studying in a highly diverse environment posed challenges, particularly in aligning perspectives for group assignments. The varied ways of thinking required us to navigate differences efficiently within tight deadlines. I learned the importance of compromise and flexibility, which helped in overcoming these challenges. Recognising that not every situation allows for a win and adapting to diverse viewpoints became crucial. This experience taught me valuable interpersonal skills, fostering effective collaboration despite conflicting approaches. It was a learning curve in teamwork and it enhanced my ability to navigate diverse workstyles and find common ground for successful project completion.
Q. What was your favourite course, and who was your favourite lecturer?
My favourite courses were the core subjects: Innovation and New Venture Creation. While challenging, they pushed me to think outside the box—creating a new venture within 12 weeks seemed impossible, but I did it. My preferred lecturers were Anton Pemmer and Stewart Rendall. Their wealth of experience in the subject, and insights into the real business world, made the learning experience both engaging and enlightening.
Q. What will you miss the most about ANU, and Canberra?
I'll miss the vibrant intellectual atmosphere at ANU, where every day brought new perspectives and challenges. The sense of community and diverse minds coming together created a unique learning environment. As for Canberra, its serene landscapes and the perfect blend of city life with nature made it a special place. Exploring the local culture, from cafes to cultural events, added to the overall enriching experience. Both ANU and Canberra have left an indelible mark on my academic and personal journey, and I'll miss the dynamic synergy they offered.
Find out more about studying a Master of Entrepreneurship and Innovation at ANU.
The ANU College of Business and Economics offers an extensive range of specialised programs. Click here for more details.