The Vice-Chancellor of the University of South Australia, Professor Peter Hoj - Sculpting a fun and rewarding career; or not taking risks is perhaps the greatest risk of all
Taking Risks, Setting Goals and Being Passionate About Your Career
On 7th September, Professor Peter Hoj, Vice Chancellor and President of the University of South Australia, came to St Mark's to deliver a talk at the Port 'n' Talk.
Professor Hoj enlightened us on his experiences during his life and the varied career and life choices he made along the way. When reflecting on leaving a laboratory where he was studying, he gave us valuable advice when he said that "how you leave a job is more important than how you start a job". Through the choices he has made, Professor Hoj has taken many risks and this was a central message throughout his talk. Professor Hoj believes that the risks that he took when accepting a position in the Science Council in Canberra benefitted his career. He said that too many people are not fulfilled in their careers because they have not taken risks: "if you believe in yourself, take risks and it pays dividends in your career. Every time I took a risk, things got better" he said. Professor Hoj explained that we pick up different skill sets when we change jobs. He said the moral was to "do whatever you want to do, do it well and don't slam the door". There were numerous other words of wisdom including:
- "Learn to live with disappointment, but always celebrate success"
- "If you find the track and you don't like it, change it"
- "Set a a high bar for yourself and believe in yourself"
- "If you stay in the one place, you don't get the breadth of experience."
- "If you think you are worth something (when contemplating a career move), make them wait"
- "Find a life partner who will support you, someone who will not stand in your way of achieving the life goals you hold".
Professor Hoj spoke of the importance of having confidence in yourself and setting your goals high to achieve the best you can. The students found his speech highly motivating and thoughtful, and many of those attending are looking forward to using his messages in the choices they make in the future.
