“In the professional world, success is often measured by tangible outcomes and contributions to the organisation.”
I’m now a Data Insights Analyst at Telstra
When Stella Lautner began her studies at UNSW College, she couldn’t have imagined that just a few years later she’d be working as a Data Insights Analyst at Telstra. What she did know was that she needed structure, support, and the kind of preparation that would make the leap to university life a little less daunting.
Stella started her journey in 2019, graduating from UNSW College’s Foundation Studies in Commerce before completing a Bachelor of Commerce in Finance at UNSW Sydney in 2023 with a Distinction WAM. Along the way, she also became a UNSW Sydney student ambassador, learning to balance academics, leadership and friendships. So how did she do it - and what’s behind her drive?
Building that foundation
Like a lot of international students, Stella decided that a pathway program at UNSW College might be the best way, “It was still rigorous, the course was designed to align with the expectations of university-level courses," she recalls. But there was more focus on learning how to write with clarity, speak with intention and how to approach topics critically.
She excelled. Graduating with a 9.7 GPA out of 10, and it helped her find a new sense of confidence, “It gave me the support I needed to thrive in a new environment.”
The class that changed everything
In her memory, there was one class that stood out at UNSW College - Academic English with Ms Shirin. “Her high standards and rigorous teaching methods pushed me. It wasn’t easy,” Stella says.
Ms Shirin created a supportive learning environment that focused on building confidence and strong academic foundations. She guided students closely, helping them write with greater clarity, precision, and structure. “It pushed me to grow,” Stella says. “Over time, those lessons made me more confident in discussions and presentations. It elevated my skills to a university level.”
Meaningful connections
By the time she began her Bachelor’s degree at UNSW Sydney, it was time for her to decide how to make the most out of it. “I engaged myself in extracurriculars, so I could meet people from diverse backgrounds and build meaningful connections,” Stella says. She became an active Student Ambassador for UNSW Sydney, and threw herself into clubs, cultural festivals and community events.
She also leaned into UNSW’s industry partnerships, as she saw those opportunities could lead her somewhere. “Collaborating on industry projects, internships, and networking events allowed me to expand my professional network and gain valuable insights into potential career paths,” she says.
Finding her direction
It was in her final year, that things started to click. It wasn’t a single ‘aha’ moment but a gradual process of trying new electives that resonated with her and gaining experience through internships. She followed what felt interesting.
”It was the combination of different opportunities and tailoring my academic journey to align with my interests,” Stella explains, “That’s what guided me to my current career.”
The flexibility to choose electives that resonated with her, and test her skills in industry projects affirmed her decision to pursue data analytics and insights. What began as a curiosity gradually turned into a career - by taking the chance to say yes to new experiences, then narrowing her focus.
Her career now
She joined Telstra as a graduate Data Specialist in 2023, right after graduation. “At Uni, you’re learning to build knowledge. At work, it’s more than that. Success is measured by the impact of your contributions,” Stella says.
”I was suddenly navigating workplace dynamics, deadlines and responsibilities all at once,” she notes. She learned to adapt quickly by adopting a growth mindset - being present, open to feedback, embracing new skills and more importantly, time management. A year later, she stepped up as a Data Insights Analyst.
Advice for future students
Stella’s advice is simple: “Approach your experience with an open mind and a proactive attitude, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone.”
She continues, “Try classes that push you in new directions, meet new people and join activities. Seek out mentors, get involved in discussions, and make the most out of what uni and college offers. The more you put in, the more you’ll get out.”
She also has a mantra she keeps with her: "Learning doesn’t stop at graduation. As Carol Dweck says, 'Becoming is better than being.' For me, it’s a reminder to keep growing."
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