Career Summary

Katrina is a seasoned marketing and communications professional with expertise in media, international engagement, and global tourism. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from Monash University, which provided her with a broad, interdisciplinary foundation that helped launch her career and navigate diverse professional opportunities. Beginning at Sina Weibo in China, Katrina managed campaigns for high-profile brands before joining Ogilvy as a PR Specialist and later the ABC as a Digital Marketing Specialist.

She has since held leadership roles at Multicultural Arts Victoria and Museums Victoria, where she now serves as Manager, Tourism and Premium Visitation. In this role, she leads international marketing, strategic tourism initiatives, and premium visitor experiences. Katrina credits her Monash Arts degree and its community for helping her build networks, develop critical thinking, and gain access to early career opportunities. She is also passionate about mentoring, cultural exchange, and promoting the transformative power of Arts studies.

Career Pathway

Sep 2023 - present: Manager, Tourism and Premium Visitation, Museums Victoria

Oct 2017 - Aug 2023: Manager, Development, Marketing and Communications, Asia, Museums Victoria

Jan 2016 - Jan 2017: Digital Marketing Specialist, Australian Broadcasting Corporation

Jun 2013 - Oct 2015: Public Relations Specialist, Etcom (Ogilvy & Mather Sydney)

Career Journey Questions

Why did you choose to study the Bachelor of Arts degree at Monash?

I pursued a Bachelor of Arts at Monash because I believed an Arts degree provides a strong foundation for any corporate career path. The program offers broad knowledge across various fields, which can later be applied to more specific areas. As a high school graduate with limited clarity on my future career, I wanted to keep my options open and prepare myself for a wide range of opportunities when they arose.

How did you get your current position?

I got my current role through a referral from my previous job. It's important to always give your best, even if your current role isn't ideal, because you never know when a colleague or manager might have an opportunity for you. You want to be at the top of their mind when that happens.

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

It’s important to have a community where you can share information and exchange knowledge. I developed my networking skills through interactions with community members. I also recommend building connections with lecturers and tutors and encouraging them to introduce you to their network, so your contacts extend beyond just your peers.

In what ways has your Monash Arts degree shaped your career or personal journey?

The Bachelor of Arts degree played a key role in helping me land my first job, and from there, my career took off. While employers today place more emphasis on practical skills, many still consider the university an employee graduated from. A prestigious university like Monash helped me stand out from other candidates. I was fortunate to become friends with several tutors and lecturers who introduced me to professionals they knew in the field and recommended me for opportunities.

Were you involved in any activities that enriched your university experience — such as student organisations, clubs, internships, or study abroad programs?

Not as much as I would have liked, and I wish I had more time for those activities. I started my first job in my second year, so most of my spare time was spent on activities and events outside of university.

From your perspective, why are studies in Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences essential in today’s society?

Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences shape individuals who are equipped to engage with and tackle the complex issues facing society today. In early adulthood, these fields help us understand who we are, how we relate to others, and how we can contribute to creating a better society.

These studies also foster critical thinking, cultural awareness, and social understanding—essential skills for navigating an increasingly complex world. These skills are not only valuable for career success but also for personal growth throughout life.

Among these subjects, some individuals will uncover the "hidden laws of the world" and gain a deeper understanding of human nature and inner truth.

What advice would you give to new students about making the most of their time at Monash — both academically and socially?

Don’t bury your head in just learning knowledge from the classroom. Look beyond. Always remember, the knowledge you gain in school or university is just the foundation—tools and equipment. To truly master those tools, you need to dive into the real world, face challenges, shed some tears, and it’s through those experiences that you’ll realise the purpose behind what you’ve learned. Only then will the value of the books you’ve read and the academic training you’ve received become clear.