Meet MEA's Newest Diploma of Event Management (SIT50316) Graduate - Jumana Schriefer

The MEA and Destination NSW partnership continues to deliver excellent results across regional NSW. Students are completing the MEA Diploma of Event Management (SIT50316) courtesy of a regional scholarship program in partnership with Destination NSW while working across the state in a range of event-related roles.

MEA were delighted to catch up with its newest graduate of the program - Jumana Schriefer to chat about her favourite topics, what she's looking forward to now that she's graduated, and to pass on any advice she has for those considering doing MEA's Diploma! 

MEA: What did you learn during SIT50316 Diploma of Event Management course?

Jumana: "First and foremost, I learned quite a few new techniques and methods that I could add on to my already existing skillset that I use when fulfilling tasks in my work field. There were some very useful tips and resources included in the diploma that assisted me on a day to day basis. It’s always a good feeling when material you learn throughout a course actually sticks you with, as I could see the templates we were using for assignments pop up in my head whilst speaking to clients."

MEA: What was your favourite topic?

Jumana: "Develop Event Concepts. This unit came naturally to me and had a huge creative aspect to it, which is my comfort zone and the element I am most passionate about in the events industry. Creating ideas, communicating with other minds to explore new ideas and invent concepts. It’s amazing what results you achieve when brainstorming and using your imagination with the input of others."

MEA: How will you use what you have learned in your current role?

Jumana: "I have not only gained more skills, but also more confidence in areas of event management. Specifically referring to dealing with conflict and customers, finances aka budgeting, and negotiating with clients. I come from a theatre events background, where mostly every event is the same, and I am looking forward to being able to use what I learned about all the other types of events that are out there in my career and future, away from theatre shows. What I learned will assist me in puckering up the courage to maybe one day start my own event business and tackle conferences, weddings, corporate events, community events, music festivals and all the others."

MEA: What are you most looking forward to now that you have the SIT50316 Diploma of Event Management qualification under your belt?

Jumana: "Firstly, I am looking forward to all the free time I have again after studying whilst working a full-time job! Jokes aside, I am excited to see what the future will bring with an additional certification under my belt. Having the diploma will open a few more doors and hopefully, attract opportunities that will place me forward in the events industry and in unchartered areas that I would have not given a chance or given consideration before."

MEA: If you could give one piece of advice to those thinking about doing the course, what would you say?

Jumana: "It’s worth it. The sometimes-late nights, the moments of feeling like giving up, the anxiety, the frustration are all worth the feeling of achievement in the end. If anyone values learning and upskilling as much as I do, then do yourselves a favour and enrol. The diploma has an excellent level of difficulty which equally challenges you but is also not impossible. You either learn new skills or improve ones you already have. Some units may come easy to you while others will take so much more time and effort than you could have anticipated. And being able to network with like-minded people who are in the same boat as you is a fantastic. Another important thing to note is that the diploma has an excellent level of support and great lecturers assisting you on the way and keeping you on your toes. I’m not one to do well studying online, but the course was interactive enough to make it feel like you were semi-studying on a campus."

MEA: Do you have any further feedback about the Diploma or your experience?

Jumana: "I actually didn’t expect the diploma’s material to be as complex as it was! Which is a positive thing. I felt more like I was doing a fast-paced bachelor degree rather than just a diploma. Basically, great material, I was impressed by what the units covered in the industry, great resources, great staff. Couldn’t fault it."

Thank you Jumana for sharing your experience with the Diploma! For those interested in learning more about the Diploma, visit: www.meetingsevents.com.au/sit50316-diploma-event-management