Jessica Cerejo

Bachelor of Multimedia Systems (Enterprise) (2006) *

Jessica Cerejo Technology Risk Consultant Protiviti

Choosing a course
Jessica Cerejo was unsure at first about the field in which she wanted to work. She decided on Monash to study a broad degree in multimedia combined with a business/enterprise major. “This degree allowed flexibility and variety. I loved how I could study digital design and art, programming, project management and business all in the same course. I knew that if I took this approach I would have the opportunity to try for any job due to Monash’s reputation in the graduate job industry.  Monash also has a great community and culture feel, and I liked how I could take units at different campuses and their overseas affiliates.”

An attractive feature of all Monash’s undergraduate IT courses is that the students can take their own direction with their projects. “In studio units we could produce anything from a film, music, digital art, gaming programs, complex programs, applications and websites. The sky really is the limit.” says Jessica. “In the final year we had the opportunity to showcase our projects to the public and industry at Federation Square. These industrial based studio projects taught us how to carefully analyse and innovate business multimedia solutions to real clients. I learned how to identify the requirements of the client, develop abstract ideas and solutions, and work in teams using business skills.”

“Most importantly, the tutors and lecturers were always there to support you with their open door policy. They got just as excited as we did about the projects we were undertaking, even staying back in their own time just to help us. They have passion in what they do, are always keen to help, and make time for students to achieve their best. I still keep in contact with my tutors and lecturers at Monash.”

The Monash experience
Jessica knows that her creative analytical approach resulting from her studies at Monash has given her the edge over graduates from other universities. “It’s hard to find this type of reputable institution offering a business and multimedia degree. I have ‘Monash’ theoretical and research standards. That says it all!”

Jessica is passionate about her time at Monash and says “You don’t just come out with a degree at the end. Monash isn’t only about learning, it’s an experience in itself.  I went in as a shy high school student and I have developed into a self confident young woman who is ready to take on anything. The community and social culture is so strong here that I have thoroughly enjoyed undertaking various leadership roles and extracurricular activities. I have a network of lecturers, tutors, faculty staff and both local and international students who are close contacts. In fact, I recently went to Norway to visit three of my international student friends.”

While studying, a career highlight was a three year employment at Monash University’s Information Technology Services as Client Services and Online Services Officer. This job reinforced her three years experience in consultation work in assessing both client and user needs, and six years experience demonstrating excellent customer service skills to stakeholders and internal clients.  Prior to this she was selected into an IT summer internship program at the prestigious SnowyHydro Ltd.

During her first year at Monash, Jessica endeavoured to take advantage of every opportunity university life had to offer. As a proud Monash student she promoted herself in a positive manner by volunteering as a student guide/ambassador at special event days such "Experience Monash”; Open Day; and Orientation week at Monash University Berwick. Jessica also participated in various discussion groups to help continually improve Monash’s service to students.

As president of the Ultra Outdoor Club of Monash Union of Berwick Students (MUBS) (also Event coordinator and Treasurer), Jessica encouraged Monash students to stretch their physical limits by organising cutting edge events. She successfully led, organised and marketed events such as snow trips, paintball, go karts, rock climbing and skydiving for the university and public.  This further developed her skills in leadership, budgeting for grants and club finances, and negotiating with external contacts to achieve excellence in each trip. Jessica was elected into the 2006 student union board (MUBS) as General Representative to ensure the needs and rights of students are met, where she gained insight into the politics of university unions. These leadership roles at Monash enabled her to form bonds between Monash staff and students that otherwise may have taken years to develop.

“In the summer of 2005/2006 I backpacked in the developing countries of Asia for two months where I immersed myself in foreign customs and communicating with locals. Afterwards I went to Europe where I was selected into the Monash International Accounting Study Program 2006. I was travelling and studying, meeting with senior personnel from large businesses to gain insights into international business and accounting practices. Business visits included: Siemens in Vienna; BMW & Siemens in Munich; Nestle in Lausanne; Films Paramount in Paris; KPMG International, CRG Control Risks, and International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) in London. Subsequent to an essay, transcript of results and interview process, I was awarded a CPA Australia Scholarship as well as a travel grant from Monash International.”

Out in the real world
Jessica believes her IT degree was pivotal in attaining her present position at Protiviti. “My IT qualifications have earned me this job, enabling me to earn a higher salary than non-graduates as I climb the ranks in the consulting professional service industry,” she says.

Her role involves conducting interviews, compiling and analysing data, and documenting findings. “I am a core member of the project team, with an understanding of business processes and technical skills in risk areas," she says."Through interaction with client and project team personnel, I develop professional relationships that contribute to exceptional client service.”

Jessica also has opportunities to assist with internal business development and the growth of the company.  ”I love the role of a consultant because I can experience different client sites and jobs, and interact with people from a variety of industries. No job is ever the same.”

“My degree encompasses technical and business acumen so many opportunities are open to me. Protiviti have supported me in moving to Sydney for a change in lifestyle, and I have travelled to San Francisco, USA, for training and to Melbourne for client meetings.”

“Monash has a great reputation for producing qualified graduates and my employers and colleagues are impressed that the broadness of my Monash degree has allowed me such flexibility. I can apply and relate my programming, accounting and business concepts to my current role, whilst having a creative approach.”

Finally, Jessica has some sound advice for students considering studying at Monash:

“Go for it! Monash is an experience and challenge for those who wish to excel and self develop. Get involved in university life and network to make the most of it. Differentiate yourself like I did from others who simply graduate with a piece of paper. Monash helps you achieve this.”

* This degree contains the previous form of the Bachelor of Information Technology and Systems (with a major in Multimedia Applications or Multimedia Games Development ), or a Bachelor of Business and Commerce/Bachelor of Information Technology and Systems