From VU to NAB

Make the most of your time, connect with different people and don't be afraid to ask questions – that’s the advice from Victoria University (VU) alumna Rahma Ragge.

Originally from Tanzania, Rahma started her academic journey with Sunway University in Kuala Lumpur, where she enrolled in VU’s Bachelor of Business (Banking and Finance) and graduated in 2012, before going on to complete a Master of Business (Accounting) from VU in 2014.

She now works at the National Australia Bank (NAB) as a senior analyst.

“I was already enrolled in the VU program at Sunway in Malaysia and transferred to Melbourne for my last year. I loved Melbourne so much I decided to stay here and further my studies at VU,” Rahma recalls.

“I had some great lecturers at VU and I met so many people and made everlasting friendships,” she says.

“Overall I have fond memories of VU and I'm glad I stayed to proceed with further studies because the master program was worth it.”

During her degree Rahma was employed as a VU staff member, initially working in admissions and enrolments and later with the student services team, where she gave support and advice to current and future students.

“It takes a lot of time management and prioritisation when studying and working; this is something I had to learn and improve along the way. It wasn’t always easy but it was manageable.” 

Upon graduation, Rahma took part in NAB’s African Australian Inclusion Program. The program provides six months of work experience to help participants gain exposure to Australian workplace cultures, build all-important networks, update their CV with local experience and obtain a job reference.

“I think it helped that I already had the education background in accounting and all I needed was my foot in the door.

“In my degree I learnt to work with people from diverse backgrounds and I gained communication skills, which really helped in my career pursuits.”

Courses studied

Bachelor of Business

Master of Business (Accounting), now Master of Professional Accounting