Alumna Chloe Ross graduated with a Bachelor of Communication in 2010 and an Honours degree of Bachelor of Arts in 2012.

My study experience was equal parts challenging and supportive. Monash provided a stimulating environment to think about issues small and large in political and journalistic spheres.

The highlight of my experience was being exposed to limitless possibilities at a truly international university, where I learned to think beyond borders.

I selected Monash for its practical and professional education, its attention to detail and its international reputation.

It only takes one person to make a difference, and I was fortunate enough to meet two. The first was the late Philip Chubb, who was not only a driving force behind the Monash journalism program, but also helped me with many crises, both practical and existential. The second is Peter Manning, whose ‘War and Conflict Reporting’ class served as a time of profound realisation and inspiration. We still keep in touch, and he continues to be one of my biggest advocates today.

My degree set me up to work for Australia's most trusted voice, the ABC, to travel internationally and to serve as the eyes and ears of Australian viewers on the world stage. Between Donald Trump’s defeat in the 2020 presidential election, the US Supreme Court overturning the nationwide right to an abortion, the January 6 attack on the US Capitol and the devastating impact of COVID-19, I have met people I never would have dreamed of meeting and have been closer to globally impactful events than I ever thought was possible. My education at Monash prepared me for more than I could have imagined at the time.

It has never been more important to provide clarity to help audiences sort through information. It's a tough moment for our industry right now, but the more journalism faces hardships, the more it is needed – and needed at its most considered and considerate. I hope every small act of communication in good faith helps inform everyone to better navigate this precarious and fluid environment.

Research, research, research. Do the work and don’t procrastinate. That dreaded task will still be there tomorrow. Back yourself and others around you. Have courage. Find a mentor and pick their brain, often. Don’t be in such a hurry to graduate. Believe me, you’ll look back at these years as some of your best and wonder what the rush was all about.