Emily Quinn

I’d wanted to learn more about events and leadership since I was about 15 and took the organiser role for a school formal, putting together a committee and bringing the event to life.

JCU is a university that offered me the opportunities I wanted without having to travel too far from home. Moving to a city like Brisbane or Sydney wasn’t something I was totally ready for at 17, and a double major that allowed me to focus on management and events was exactly what I was looking for.

The lecturers at JCU really helped shape my degree. It was great to have teaching staff who take time to get to know you and your personal circumstances, as well as having classes that are small enough for them to be personal.

I’m currently working as Executive Assistant and Event Manager in Sydney for a company that takes music festivals to regional areas around the country. Locally, we focus on bringing cultural events and people to areas of Sydney that are limited in their current offerings.

The biggest piece of advice I would give anyone looking to make their way in business and events is to take any opportunity you are given for work experience and give it your all. I owe my current job, and my previous two, to glowing references from placements, internships and people who know people — all the way interstate too.

I’m lucky to work with an exceptionally hard working bunch of ladies who inspire me every day to achieve my highest potential. Breaking through the music industry mould with a 75 per cent female office, we’re full of passion for what we do and have no hesitation when it comes to doing things differently.