Career Summary

With a strong background in media and communications, Andrea is a skilled storyteller passionate about using words to drive positive change. Currently the Communications Coordinator at The Royal Children’s Hospital Foundation, she crafts compelling narratives that inspire community support and highlight the impact of philanthropy.

Andrea’s career has spanned roles in strategy, content, and social impact, including positions at Anchora, ntegrity, and Big Group Hug. A graduate of Monash University’s Bachelor of Media Communication, she was part of the program’s first-ever cohort and embraced practical experiences such as internships with FEMALE magazine and Sharing Hope.

Through both academic and professional opportunities, Andrea developed a deep understanding of audience engagement, clarity in messaging, and the importance of empathetic communication—particularly when working with sensitive or complex topics. Her work reflects a thoughtful, mission-driven approach to storytelling across sectors.

Career Pathway

Jan 2024 - present:  Communications Coordinator, The Royal Children's Hospital Foundation Melbourne

Feb 2023 – Jan 2024:  Delivery Consultant, Anchora

Jan 2022 – Feb 2023:  Junior Copywriter, ntegrity

Nov 2020 – Dec 2021:  Communications Coordinator (Contract), Big Group Hug

2019 - 2020 - Volunteer & internship roles

• Deputy Director of Communications (Volunteer), Oaktree, Australia
• Social Media Manager (Volunteer), Oaktree, Australia
• Intern, FEMALE, Malaysia
• Intern, Sharing Hope
• Editorial Intern, Blu Inc Media, Malaysia

Career Journey Questions

Why did you choose to study the Bachelor of Media Communication?

I chose to study the Bachelor of Media Communication after attending an Open Day at Monash. After hearing more about the course, I became increasingly interested in learning about our digital landscape, the ever-changing nature of the media and very excitingly, becoming part of the degree’s first ever cohort!

The practicality of the Bachelor of Media Communication also appealed to me at the time. I loved the idea of getting hands-on experience and graduating with a portfolio of some of my best work.

I had visited a few other universities before that, but none of their courses had made such an impact before. From the moment I explored the Bachelor of Media Communication and stepped foot on Monash’s campus, it instantly felt like the right fit.

What is one piece of advice/wisdom you wish someone had shared with you on your first day at Monash?

Try as much as you can. University gives you the opportunity to explore different areas and to figure out what feels right for you. When doing my degree, I took subjects across the media, screen, and public relations specialisations, and this helped me understand what I truly enjoyed.

I also did internships through Monash’s student placement programs — one with a fashion magazine, FEMALE in Malaysia, and another in the Not-For-Profit sector with Sharing Hope.

Both these experiences allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of both my strengths and passions.

For instance, I truly enjoyed writing long-form articles while interning at FEMALE, while my internship for the Not-For-Profit sector exposed me to my love of making an impact. Today, I’ve been fortunate enough to combine both these interests and embark on a truly rewarding career.

From your perspective, why is Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences an area of study crucial for today’s society?

In my opinion, studies in Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences is highly relevant. It teaches you how to communicate effectively across different cultures and diverse lived experiences. This is something I carry into my work today, especially when dealing with sensitive topics like medical conditions, where empathy and compassion are essential.

Studying the Bachelor of Media Communication also helped me become more aware of misinformation and how to communicate in a clear, skilled, and accessible way. I think that learning to distill complex information so that it can be understood by everyone is crucial in today’s world.

What advice would you give to new students on how to make the most of their time at Monash, both academically and socially?

Whether it’s academically or socially, speak to your peers. It’s something people assume will happen naturally, but you have to make the effort. You won’t always see the same people in every class, so it’s important to reach out, join clubs, and find your community. Surrounding yourself with people who have different thoughts and opinions will help you grow. It will also make you a better communicator.

How did your Monash Arts degree contribute to where you are today in your career or personal life?

My Arts degree gave me the chance to explore different areas through internships and practical assignments in the Monash Media Lab. It helped me figure out what I enjoyed, whether it was writing, podcast production, or another aspect of media. It also helped me refine my interests by combining hands-on learning with theory, which has been valuable in my professional life.

On a personal level, I’ve built strong connections with people, and I’m lucky to have a great support network around me.

How did the Monash Arts community support your growth and ambitions during your studies?

No matter what I was interested in, I was able to find support across campus to help me grow. I was most passionate about long-form writing, so to help build my portfolio, I got involved in Esperanto Magazine, a quarterly student print publication distributed on campus.

Additionally, as I found myself approaching graduation and feeling increasingly stressed, I was able to connect with a mentor. I also engaged with Monash Career Connect as I approached graduation to help me better prepare for job applications and interviews.

Were you actively involved in any activities that enhanced your university experience, such as, student organisations, clubs & societies, internships or study abroad?

I was fortunate enough to be involved in a Monash-affiliated organisation called Monash Future Thinkers. I was involved with the organisation during COVID, and this experience taught me how to lead a project from start to finish, how to pivot during times of stress and most importantly, it gave me a network of people - some of whom I’m still friends with today.

Thanks to the organisation’s structure, I was also able to work with an incredibly talented team to pioneer a podcast, allowing me to use skills I had learnt from the Bachelor of Media Communication. This platform also meant that I was able to meet and speak with some incredible people, including former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull!

In my final years of university, I was also able to participate in an overseas internship with FEMALE magazine, an experience that significantly contributed to my professional growth. I was grateful to receive support through a Monash grant, which made this opportunity even more accessible. Additionally, I applied for and secured a Monash-sourced internship at a Not-For-Profit called Sharing Hope, further expanding my experience in the sector.