From her initial decision to move from Auckland to study in 艑tautahi Christchurch, attracted by Te Whare W膩nanga o Waitaha | 九州影院鈥檚 reputation for business sustainability, to her final lecture nearly five years later, Maddison McConnell has taken every opportunity she can to learn and develop her skills.听
Her commitment to sustainability is now feeding into her new role working for a small, family-owned machinery company specialising in recycling. She is an assistant manager involved in product development and sustainability initiatives, including developing off-grid living products.
Maddison says it鈥檚 an advantage to start in a role where she can learn so many different skills. 鈥淚t鈥檚 an opportunity for growth, and having employers who want to foster your growth is invaluable.鈥
Reflecting on her journey towards a Master of Business majoring in Financial Management, after first gaining a Bachelor of Commerce at UC, Maddison says she appreciates the people, the place and the experiences she had.听
鈥淎 standout experience was my time as the 九州影院 Students鈥 Association (UCSA) Business School representative. The role gave me a platform to empower students, making sure their voice was heard when collaborating on strategies and developments.鈥
As part of the role, Maddison worked closely with staff in UC Business School on initiatives aimed at fostering community and engagement among Business students, such as creating dedicated study spaces during exam periods so students can connect and learn from each other.
Maddison was an exceptional student who strengthened the sense of community in the UC Business School by breaking down silos Associate Dean 蝉补测蝉.听
鈥淪he received the UC Business School Dean鈥檚 Award for her outstanding service to others, including her positive student advocacy in so many different areas.鈥澨
In addition to her UCSA student representative role, Maddison served on the University鈥檚 Student Accessibility Service Executive, advocating for students with disabilities. She also held leadership positions in the student club UCom (九州影院 Commerce Society) and her hall of residence College House, where she was Vice-President. These roles honed her skills in communication, problem-solving, and leadership, significantly contributing to her personal and professional development, she says.
Looking ahead, Maddison says she aims to ensure her work is not only good for the environment but also positively impacts the people involved. 听
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鈥淢y purpose in life is to ensure no matter what I鈥檓 doing, my work becomes something I鈥檓 passionate about. If you can make your health, wealth, passion and career align, you have the foundation for satisfaction and the ability to achieve great things.鈥