The ability to use words in diverse and powerful ways has helped Jessica Butler of Narangba graduate from USC into a job as a communications officer with the Australian Taxation Office.

The 21-year-old graduated last week with a combined degree in Business and Arts, after completing majors in Psychology and Marketing and a minor in Sociology.

“Working in communications, writing is at the centre of what I do. Having learned to write so diversely during university, I have been given the foundation to do my job well,” Jessica said.

“One of the biggest things university taught me was to write: How to write academically, creatively, succinctly, descriptively, critically. Each tutor was different in what they expected from my writing, so I learned to ask questions, figure out what they wanted and then delivered it.

“Looking at my first assignment in comparison to my last assignment, the difference in the quality of work is crazy. I didn’t even know I was improving during university, but here I am four years done and university has given me the foundation for my future.”

Jessica, who attended St Columban’s College in Caboolture, said her current role involved her working on the development of a wide range of communication products, ranging from social media posts to internal news articles.

“Working at the Australian Taxation Office is incredible for versatility,” she said. “I have had the opportunity to work on so many different projects that have tested my skills and knowledge. I also have a lot of opportunity for growth, and learning is as much a part of the job as writing a Facebook post is.”

Jessica said the environment at the USC Sunshine Coast campus at Sippy Downs had made it easy for her to learn.

“The campus, which attracted me to USC in the first place, was such an open and environmentally rich area. I didn’t mind doing long days on campus because it was such a nice place to be. The amenities are incredible,” she said.

“Also, the tutors and lecturers were great and they would often go that extra mile to ensure their students were doing well. One of the most important things I learned was to ask for help when I needed it, because they are always willing to offer support.”

Applications are open to study at USC, starting Semester 2.