ACAA × GSA Career Development & Social Integration Forum – Melbourne

The ACAA × GSA Career Development & Social Integration Forum – Melbourne Stop was successfully held on 18 November at the University of Melbourne.

The forum welcomed three outstanding alumni speakers — Damon Yu (Solicitor, Prudentia Legal), Michael FU (Partner, Laurel International), and Cecilia Fan (Psychotherapist & Psychodrama Practitioner) — who brought valuable perspectives from their respective fields. They each began with a focused presentation: covering legal awareness and self-protection in the Australian workplace, practical strategies for job searching and career planning, and the importance of maintaining psychological wellbeing and a stable sense of identity while living abroad. Their insights, rooted in both professional knowledge and personal experience, helped participants understand how to better develop, integrate, and position themselves within Australian society.

Following the presentations, the interactive Q&A session became one of the liveliest parts of the event. Students and alumni raised a range of real-life questions about job hunting, workplace communication, and adapting to life overseas. The speakers offered thoughtful responses to common concerns such as how to gain local work experience, how to present oneself effectively in interviews, and when and how to say “no” in a respectful and professional way. Many attendees shared the pressure of lacking local experience; the speakers noted that while local exposure is helpful, it doesn’t have to start with a perfect role — part-time jobs, volunteering, and community involvement can all help build credibility. They also encouraged participants to treat interview introductions as a form of personal branding — not only describing responsibilities, but clearly articulating value and impact.

Questions around mental health also resonated strongly. Some participants spoke about stress, isolation, and emotional challenges while living overseas. Cecilia encouraged everyone to explore whatever form of expression feels natural — talking to someone, writing things down, or even recording thoughts on a phone — as healthy outlets for processing emotions.

The forum combined structured sharing with genuine conversation, allowing participants to gain both professional guidance and relatable advice. The warmth and practicality of the speakers’ responses left many attendees feeling more supported, informed, and confident about their next steps in Australia.

ACAA will continue to support the growth and connection of our alumni community nationwide, and we look forward to welcoming everyone at future events.