Life Beyond the Classroom: Grads Reflect on their Transition from Uni to Work

Posted by Australian Taxation Office
 This article is sponsored by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO)

For many grads, the leap from uni to the professional world can be exciting and overwhelming. The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) share their top tips along with insights from their recent grads to help your transition from the classroom to the office. 

1. Embrace hands-on learning — the ATO Graduate Program offers job rotations so you can explore different areas and discover where you want your career to take you. We’re also big on encouraging continuous learning to facilitate growth and innovation.  

‘In university, you gain knowledge. In the workplace, you apply it. The breadth of experience you can get in the ATO has been wonderful for my career, because I’m not just doing a course—I’m learning on the job’. Mitchell, ATO Graduate. 

2. Seek mentorship — the mentorship culture at the ATO provides invaluable support. Working alongside experts, you’ll receive on-the-job-training, build your skills and networks. Plus, a dedicated career manager will support you every step of the way. 

‘Switching from uni to work is like entering a new world. Luckily, I’ve had immense support from my team and everyone around me. I was never short of mentors willing to go above and beyond to help me learn and develop’. Sui, ATO Graduate. 

3. Embrace a growth mindset — at the ATO, grads are encouraged to view challenges as opportunities to grow, question why and how things are done and suggest new ways of working. 

‘Learning doesn't stop after graduation; it's just the beginning! ‘The ATO is a massive organisation and there’s a role for pretty much every skillset. Put your best foot forward and you’ll go far’. Dean, ATO Graduate. 

4. Collaboration matters — you’ll likely work on projects that require collaboration with stakeholders across, or outside your organisation. This is especially true at the ATO. We value collaboration as an opportunity to share knowledge, experiences, and expertise. You’ll be amazed by the inventive ideas that you can generate as a team. 

‘University projects often feel like solo endeavours, but in the workplace, teamwork is the key to success. I've had a great time in the ATO Graduate Program. I've worked with lots of people, including some amazing leaders. One of the coolest parts is connecting with other grads—they're not only smart but also a lot of fun. Hanging out with them, both at work and outside, makes the whole experience even more enjoyable’. Pierre, ATO Graduate. 

Transitioning from university to the workforce is a significant step. The ATO Graduate Program stands out for the opportunities it provides and the supportive environment it cultivates. Through hands-on experiences, mentorship, a growth mindset and teamwork, ATO graduates bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. 

So, as you take your first steps into the professional world, remember: it's not just about finding a job; it's about launching a rewarding career. You’ll have five careers in your life. The ATO could give you, well, all of them! With hundreds of graduate positions in Data, IT, Law, Accounting, Commerce, Design, HR, Communications and more, the ATO may have a role for you! 

Applications for the award-winning ATO Graduate Program are now open and will close 11 April. Visit ato.gov.au/grads for more information and to apply.


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