C141/08
Recently named Best Master of Accounting student, Julia Claire Swinstead, has barely stepped foot on campus yet managed to earn a Master of Accounting degree at Curtin University of Technology.
In 2004 Julia enrolled at Curtin Business School (CBS) where she completed her entire course online, only visiting the Bentley Campus for one unit.
The busy mother of three, State Emergency Service volunteer and the founder of the Flametree Arabian horse stud, said it was Curtin’s reputation combined with the flexibility of the online course that made her choose CBS.
“I wanted a platform to allow me to complete my CPA and further enhance my professional career; however, a major commitment to university study would have been impossible without the option of online learning,” Julia said.
“The online method of learning meant I could schedule my own class time, do the required exercises and access all the academic resources I need from almost anywhere at any time.
“I also stayed in touch with fellow students and tutors via online classes and email. The downloadable taxation lectures were great on the ipod in the car; it definitely beats listening to morning radio shows.”
Julia was awarded the Trans Business Dynamic Prize at the CBS 2008 Prizes Ceremony recently which is given to the best graduating student studying a Master of Accounting.
“I am delighted to be awarded such a significant accolade by Curtin and honoured to be recognised for all my hard work,” Julia said.
“My education at CBS has equipped me with the right skills and knowledge to put me in a great position to progress my career.
“I thoroughly enjoy my job and would recommend accounting as a career to anyone. I think there is a misconception among young people that accounting is boring, however, in the business world you discover there is so much more to it than just number crunching.”
Head of the School of Accounting, Associate Professor John Neilson congratulated Julia on receiving one of the School’s top awards and wished her well in her future endeavours.
“I congratulate Julia on her wonderful achievement and on her commitment to attaining such outstanding results and I wish her well for the future,” A/Professor Neilson said.
Note to Editors: A photograph of Julia can be arranged on request
Contacts: Monique Billstein; Public Relations; Curtin; 08 9266 3353; 0401 103 018; M.Billstein@curtin.edu.au
