HeyU Issue 23 - 4 March 2015 | Page 8

feature Post-graduate study helped Viki start her own business WORDS: EMMA BELL – USQ Alumni IMAGES: USQ PHOTOGRAPHY The thought of leaving a better world for her children and ‘owning many, many pairs of Carrie Bradshaw inspired heels!’ is what pushed USQ business alumna, Viki, to take on postgraduate study. Now, not only is Viki a multitasking mother of two and a dedicated student, she’s also a community volunteer who helps entrepreneurs develop their ideas through her very own consultancy practice, Brisbane Business Strategy. Viki’s business was the brainchild of a third-year business class at USQ. With the help of her lecturer, who ‘took the time to listen to my idea and encouraged me to make it into something’, Viki turned an assignment into a successful practice that now helps people looking to start their own businesses. Viki is now combining her professional passions with her community work in her role as Director of Finance for The Goodness Inc, for which she was recognised at USQ’s Student Awards last year. Her latest project, Speed Seed, brings together changemakers and potential investors and mentors in a professional speed dating-style environment. So, how does Viki make sure she has time to fit everything in? ‘I juggle everything by planning my day according to priorities and focusing on what is crucial instead of being bogged down with unnecessary tasks. I love what I do and that makes a difference.’ To find out more about Viki, her business, what motivates her and how she juggled study with a career, check out her blog. Viki’s tips for success: • Understand your goals. Figure out why you want to study, have a concrete vision and see how it will help your family in the future. Education is an investment into not just your future but that of your family. • Murphy’s Law is that kids will fall sick right before that assignment is due. Ask for help and raise a hand if you are struggling. • Quality study time is important. I give myself halfhour blocks of study time to focus on one thing, to help me stay focused and use my time better.