My Career Plan by

melaniecraig9 — 2024-04-14 09:40:38 UTC

NERIS Analytics Limited (2024). Free Personality Test. 16 Personalities. https://.16personalities.com/free-personality-test

Adventurer (ISFP-T)

melaniecraig9 — 2024-04-14 09:52:20 UTC

According to the Myer Briggs 16 Personality Types, I am an Adventurer (NERIS Analytics Limited, 2024). My strengths are that I am passionate, imaginative, kind and encouraging, and sensitive to others.

I am a highly passionate person who takes values very seriously, which is reflected in my advocacy mindset. For me, success isn't a monetary value but rather it's how I have been able to contribute to improve the world around me. I am a highly empathetic person which helps me to connect with a diverse range of people, and my kind nature allows people to feel comfortable with opening up to me.

Problem solving and critical thinking

melaniecraig9 — 2024-04-14 09:59:20 UTC

I am often the person both friends and colleagues come to when they have a problem that needs solving. I am able to see a problem holistically in order to critically analyse a situation. In my current employment I resolve issues through project management which has allowed me the opportunity to significantly develop my problem solving and critical thinking skills, and how to capitalise on the skills and unique viewpoints of those around me.

Communication

melaniecraig9 — 2024-04-14 10:29:38 UTC

A key strength is my well-developed communication skills. For example, my role in project management requires a great deal of communication via email and it is important that my emails are succinct but informative and easily to comprehend. I am regularly involved in scoping meetings where complex problems need to be verbally resolved effectively and to strict timelines. Active listening is a critical part of this process, as is the ability to share feedback and provide clarity and insight respectfully and confidently.

Difficulty with structure

melaniecraig9 — 2024-04-14 10:35:51 UTC

One important weakness this course has helped me to identify is that I have difficulty with structure and rigidity. For example, my current job is quite repetitive and whilst the ability to resolve complex problems does allow me to partially tap into my creative side, it is bound by many rules and restrictions. This rigidity and strict structure means I often feel bored, disengaged and constrained. This weakness however can be turned into a strength by moving into a career which allows variation, flexibility and creativity.

Perfectionistic

melaniecraig9 — 2024-04-14 10:35:58 UTC

A work in progress for me is my tendency towards perfectionism. I unnecessarily stress over the possibility of making mistakes and therefore become quite anxious when tackling a large piece of work. This can can often also result in procrastination. Having a perfectionistic personality makes me quite indecisive as I feel the need to explore every suggestion, option and opinion before making a decision. This trait means that I do have a very high level of attention to detail, however I often spend an excessive amount of time on little details that, overall, aren't actually that relevant to a successful outcome.

Sensitive to criticism

melaniecraig9 — 2024-04-14 10:36:24 UTC

My sensitive nature allows me to be empathetic towards others and relate to their problems, however, it is also a hindrance as it also means I am averse to criticism. I often interpret criticism and feedback as a challenge to my personal values. For example, in my regular performance reviews at work I have to actively remind myself that any criticisms are actually ways that I can improve myself, rather than interpreting it as an attack against me as a person and my capabilities.

Social issues

melaniecraig9 — 2024-04-14 11:57:12 UTC

I spend a lot of my free time listening to podcasts and reading articles about social justice issues, crime and the criminal justice system, feminism and reproductive rights, LGBTQ+ discrimination, indigenous rights, and human rights violations, to name a few. I like to learn as much as I can about issues that are important to (and affecting) my community, my country and to society as a whole. Being informed about the challenges that communities face are both interesting and important to me.

Health and fitness

melaniecraig9 — 2024-04-14 11:57:21 UTC

I spend a lot of my free time at kickboxing training, at the gym or taking my dog for a long hike on the weekend. I spend a lot of time on my fitness, not just to 'keep in shape' but because I thoroughly enjoy the feeling of movement and challenging my body to its physical limits. Taking my dog, Kirra, for a hike each Sunday is an extremely important part of my week as it provides us both with crucial bonding time as I don't get to spend as much time with her during the working week as I would like. Getting back to nature with my dog is also an opportunity to destress and practice mindfulness after a hectic work week, which is great for my mental health.

Equality and diversity

melaniecraig9 — 2024-04-14 12:15:41 UTC

I strongly believe in the concept of equality and that all people should be provided with equal opportunities regardless of their background, ethnicity, lifestyle choice, age, gender, sexual orientation, or their physical and mental abilities. People should be appreciated and celebrated for the things that make then unique, whether that be differing values, beliefs, opinions, personal choices or experiences. In my working life I am fortunate enough to be part of a team that is very diverse and who come from a wide range of backgrounds and lived experiences. This diversity is invaluable as it promotes innovation, creativity and the opportunity to see problems and issues from different perspectives which, in turn, helps me to grow as a person.

Adventure

melaniecraig9 — 2024-04-14 12:16:13 UTC

Exploring new places, whether that be travelling to a new country or simply to new area of town, provides me with a sense of adventure and excitement which is extremely important to me. I love challenging myself both physically and mentally, and experiencing different people, places and cultures is such an wonderful and fascinating way to grow my mindset and learn about the world around me. This value has provided me with the opportunity to be exposed to a broad range of people and cultures whose values may differ to my own. It has allowed me to be open-minded and respectful of the differences that make us our unique individual selves, which is important when considering social (in)justice issues. I also think this value ties into my personality trait of becoming easily bored. Adventure, travelling and exposing myself to new experiences allows me to have a life that is both interesting and meaningful, which to me is the definition of success.

Meaningful career in social change and justice

melaniecraig9 — 2024-04-14 12:19:19 UTC

My overall career goal is to obtain my Bachelors Degree (majoring in Criminology and Criminal Justice/Legal Studies), so that I can enter the criminal justice sector and make meaningful change through advocacy in criminal justice issues and actively participate in the implementation of restorative justice practices.

Justice

melaniecraig9 — 2024-04-14 12:20:01 UTC

I am a firm advocate for human rights and social justice. I believe that all people deserve to be treated humanely, individual rights should be protected, and people should be provided with the support and tools needed to overcome disadvantage.

For example, as my educational interests lie in the criminal justice system, the topic of restorative justice is something I feel very passionate about as it is more than simply punishing an offender, but a practice which actively seeks to restore harm to the victim, holds the offender accountable for their actions and aims to prevent the likelihood of reoffending.

My 5 year goals

melaniecraig9 — 2024-04-14 13:02:56 UTC

In the next five years I will:

Complete my Bachelor of Arts (Criminology & Criminal Justice) degree so that I have the necessary qualifications to gain employment within the public safety sector.
Obtain relevant industry experience through volunteering for organisations such as Victim Support, PACT or Prison Reform Trust.
Embark on a career change by securing a role within the criminal justice system, specifically within the corrections arm, to enhance my knowledge of the issues faced by prisoners both within the correctional setting, and upon release, the factors that mitigate and aggravate successful reintegration back into society, and the services required to support prisoners upon release.
Establish a professional network with people and organisations working within criminal justice system in order to promote my presence as a criminal justice student and emerging professional, and to stay abreast of the latest trends within the industry.
Join relevant industry associations and organisations such as the Australian and New Zealand Society of Criminology and the Australian Association for Professional and Applied Ethics.
Start a criminal justice blog, focusing on research, restorative justice and policy reform, and to educate others on these important topics.

My 10 year goals

melaniecraig9 — 2024-04-14 17:41:08 UTC

Have embedded professional connections within the public safety sector through networking events and colleagues.
Acquire in depth specific experience in working with vulnerable people, such as those who enter the criminal justice system as both offenders and victims.
Obtain a Master's degree to enhance my knowledge, my research skills, and my employability.
Undertake research into the effectiveness of various offender rehabilitation programmes and restorative justice practices for victims, and publish my findings.
Have security in a career that I find fulfilling and rewarding, that also allows for financial security.

Relevant qualifications

melaniecraig9 — 2024-04-14 17:44:39 UTC

Complete Bachelor of Arts (Criminology and Criminal Justice) degree.

Industry experience

melaniecraig9 — 2024-04-14 17:45:09 UTC

Apply for volunteer opportunities within the criminal justice sector, such as Victim Support, Shaw Trust or Law Reform Trust, that will give me specific experience in working with people who have come into contact with the CJS and who have complex needs.

Time management and overloaded schedule

melaniecraig9 — 2024-04-14 17:56:55 UTC

I work full time and I find that balancing work and study commitments can often be challenging, so ensuring I stay on track with my studies whilst not neglecting my work commitment will be a bit obstacle I need to overcome. It will be crucial for me to plan ahead, stay flexible and practice exceptional time management skills.

Industry experience

melaniecraig9 — 2024-04-14 17:57:24 UTC

Ensuring I gain the necessary relevant experience and skills that are in line with job descriptions and essential skills and experience in job postings, and which also complement my existing skill set. I therefore need to stay up to date on industry trends so I can ensure I am aware of any new skills or experience I may to obtain in order to enhance my employability.

Work-life balance

melaniecraig9 — 2024-04-14 17:57:50 UTC

In addition to full-time employment I also have kick-boxing training twice a week, cardio and weights training 3-4 times a week, a dog that needs daily exercise and, most importantly, a husband and child that I want to spend quality time with. I also will be commencing a volunteering role and attending networking events in the very near future. I need to be careful that I don't experience burn out or neglect any of the important people in my life. I will need to prioritise my schedule and learn that sometimes it's ok to say 'No'.

Goal review and vision boards

melaniecraig9 — 2024-04-14 17:58:11 UTC

Regularly reviewing my goals to ensure I am staying on track and having a vision board as a visual reminder of what my goals are will help me to stay motivated and resilient during times of adversity and stress.

Self-care, mental health and wellbeing

melaniecraig9 — 2024-04-14 17:58:49 UTC

Practicing self-care is critical for a positive and resilient mindset. Taking time to do the things that recharge my batteries, such as spending time with friends and family and participating in hobbies is crucial for ensuring I don't burnout or experience adverse mental health. Making sure I take the time for fitness and exercise and eating a balanced healthy diet will aid in ensuring I have enough energy to face the moments that are particularly challenging, such as having multiple assignments due at the same time, facing work challenges and meeting family needs.

Embrace planned happenstance

melaniecraig9 — 2024-04-14 18:00:02 UTC

There will be times when certain changes arise may not be what I'm expecting, however by being open to new events, challenges and the odd curve-ball, and embracing change rather than resisting it can open up new opportunities and knowledge.

Seek feedback and learning opportunities

melaniecraig9 — 2024-04-14 18:41:57 UTC

Improving skills and identifying learning gaps through constructive feedback, as well as the recognition and acknowledgement of achievements, can help to foster a growth mindset and help me to learn from mistakes and improve my capabilities. It will allow an opportunity to identify where I need further support, experience or learning which can prepare me for future challenges and demands.

melaniecraig9 — 2024-04-14 19:12:19 UTC

Kus, K. (Presenter). (2020). Career trajectory: Claiming your identity [Video]. TED Conferences, LLC. https://www.ted.com/talks/karen_kus_career_trajectory_claiming_your_identity

Establish networks and professional connections

melaniecraig9 — 2024-04-15 18:00:51 UTC

Attend networking events such as:

Applied Research in Crime and Justice Conference (Brisbane Convention Centre).
ANZSOC National Conference (State Library)
Queensland Law Annual Legal Conference (Gold Coast)
Legal Careers Expo (Victoria Park, Brisbane)

Career change

melaniecraig9 — 2024-04-15 18:17:03 UTC

Create job alerts to identify what opportunities are arising within the criminal justice system.
Review job descriptions to understand the skills required so these can be obtained through volunteer opportunities.
Ensure my Resume is kept up-to-date and I engage with Linkedin more frequently.
Apply for roles, even if I don't meet all the relevant criteria as it will provide important interview practice.

Create a blog

melaniecraig9 — 2024-04-15 18:19:57 UTC

Research blogs to learn what similar content is currently out there and research will help me to learn how I can create my own blog in a unique and interesting way that will effectively capture audiences.
Create a blog and allocate time for regular posting.
Promote my blog through social media and at networking events.

January 2024 to December 2028

melaniecraig9 — 2024-04-15 18:22:58 UTC

Step 1: Create a blog

melaniecraig9 — 2024-04-15 18:23:19 UTC

Due date: End of 2024

I will have an up and running blog where I am making regular posts.

Step 2: Attend networking events

melaniecraig9 — 2024-04-15 18:23:30 UTC

Due Date: Ongoing to 2028

I will attend at least two networking events in person and at least 2 networking events online each academic year until the end of 2028.

Step 3: Start gaining relevant industry experience

melaniecraig9 — 2024-04-15 18:23:36 UTC

Due Date: immediately (and ongoing)

Before the commencement of Trimester 2, 2024, I will apply for volunteer positions to gain relevant experience, specifically working with individuals who have come into contact with the CJS.

Step 4: Complete Bachelor of Arts (Criminology & Criminal Justice)

melaniecraig9 — 2024-04-15 18:23:54 UTC

Due Date: End of academic year 2028

Complete six to eight units each academic year.

Step 5: Make a career change

melaniecraig9 — 2024-04-15 18:24:06 UTC

Due Date: Start to mid academic year 2028

In my final trimesters of my study, I will commence applying for jobs within the correctional arm of the criminal justice system, specifically jobs relating to restorative justice and/or prison reform.