National Careers Week: Grace Moloney
As part of National Careers Week, Right at Home Emerging Jackaroo Grace Moloney chatted with Bowls Australia’s (BA) Athlete Wellbeing and Engagement Coordinator Cara Gleeson to discuss her blossoming career in agricultural science, which she is currently studying in Adelaide.
What is your employment/study status?
I am currently in my second year of study as an Agricultural Science student at the University of Adelaide, with hopes for a future career in the grains industry. I am particularly interested in communications or agronomy.
What are some of the skills you have developed through your sport that are transferable to your career away from sport?
Unlike most other sports, bowls is unique in the way it requires long periods of concentration, focus and determination. These skills have matured over the years, becoming more transferable in my uni degree, allowing me to sit through an eight hour day of lectures, tutorials and practicals which is the part of the foundation for a career in ag science.
What are you working on to develop your skills and knowledge for a career away from sport?
I have been very fortunate to attend many career nights hosted by the Agricultural Association that has allowed networking opportunities with potential employers and has been a great bridge for professional development as I head into the workforce. These networking sessions have given me the chance to gain valuable resources, industry connections and rewarding opportunities within and beyond the industry.
Can you share what you are enjoying about your current study or work?
Surprisingly, I really enjoy going to uni! But I think that’s because I am surrounded by down to earth and like-minded people, as well as passionate lecturers. As a part of our degree, we also have to undertake 450 hours in an internship position. I have been fortunate enough to be an intern with the Ag Institute as their Student Compendium Communications and Socials Intern. I have had some amazing opportunities to be mentored by Ag Communications in writing a communications strategy plan and mentored by Environmental & Science Media, assisting in interviewing and shooting four videos of students and companies as a part of the socials.
What’s a tip you could give other athletes thinking of studying, working, volunteering whilst still training and competing?
Find balance and say yes to support. During my uni years, I have been lucky enough to be a part of the Elite Athletes Program at the University of Adelaide which allows flexibility with assignments and exams to assist with commitments to bowls. Something I am still continuously learning is finding balance and being able to prioritise. I’ve learnt that I play my best when I am fully focused on the competition and not worrying about an assignment because I have completed it in advance.
What have you been planning for the next 12 months?
I am very privileged to have received the Horizon Scholarship through AgriFutures and be sponsored by Grain Research and Develop Corporation (GRDC). It will allow the opportunity to travel interstate and understand how agriculture works in a variety of different regions. I also hope to diversify my internships to discover my interest for a future career.
