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From Study to Strategy: Applying university studies to engagement at ECF
By Caitlin Brooks
Published On July 13, 2025
From Study to Strategy: Applying university studies to engagement at ECF
After four transformative years of study, I have finally graduated university!
What made my university experience truly unique wasn’t just the classroom learning, it was the way I was able to apply that learning in a real-world setting while working at ECF.
I completed a double degree in Business and Creative Intelligence and Innovation (BCII) at University of Technology, Sydney. BCII is a transdisciplinary degree, where students from different disciplines work together to tackle complex and contemporary problems through creative, outside-the-box thinking. Throughout my studies, I was exposed to diverse ways of thinking, collaborated in close-knit project teams, and developed strong skills in problem-solving, adaptability, and communication. I also had the opportunity to study abroad in Sweden, where I expanded my global network and cross-cultural understanding.
During my final year of university, I balanced part-time work with full-time study and was lucky enough to do so at ECF. At the time, our Australia team was small, comprising of just five of us, which meant I had the chance to get hands-on with a wide range of projects early on. ECF was the perfect complement to my studies, giving me the opportunity to apply academic theory in a real-world setting. From identifying strategic opportunities to navigating the intricacies of project delivery, I gained exposure to work that directly aligned with what I was learning. The flexibility of the role also allowed me to collaborate with industry partners throughout my course and refine the skills I was building at university. ECF became more than just a workplace, it became an extension of my education.
The flexibility and support of the team allowed me to grow professionally while continuing my studies. I learned how to manage competing deadlines, communicate effectively with clients, and collaborate across teams — skills that directly mirrored what I was learning in my degree. In return, my academic projects benefitted from insights I gained working alongside experienced mentors and industry partners.
On completion of my studies, I was grateful to transition into a Project Coordinator role, taking on more responsibility and contributing to project outcomes and client relationships with confidence.
Reflecting on this journey, I’m incredibly thankful for how the intersection of my studies and work at ECF helped me bridge the gap between university and the professional world, making the leap feel a little less daunting and a lot more rewarding.
Caitlin at her graduation ceremony in May.
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After contributing to ECF first as an intern and then as a Project Coordinator following her graduation, we’re thrilled to share that Caitlin has recently secured a role as a Marketing Coordinator at Ernst & Young. She was a valued member of our team, bringing energy, insight, and dedication to a range of high-profile client projects across New South Wales and Queensland. We are incredibly proud of her achievements and wish her every success in this exciting new chapter of her career.
