As the new Departmental Administrator in the Department of International Studies, Sheyana La Brooy provides support to HOD Associate Professor Ulrike Garde and other department staff, across the full breadth of their operations, including student administration, department communications and event management.

Sheyana was recently involved in coordinating a key event in the Departmental calendar – their annual student prize giving. Over 130 guests were in attendance, including dignitaries from several embassies, consular offices, cultural organisations, and valued prize-donors.

Associate Professor Ulrike Garde (right), Head of the Department of International Studies, with student prize event distinguished guests including the Consul Generals of Croatia, Germany and Poland.

1) The thing I find most rewarding in my role is…
The opportunity to engage with a wide spectrum of stakeholders within the sector including academics, students, researchers and professional staff and to gain a unique insight into diverse Departmental/Faculty operations.

2) This year I want to…
Immerse myself in my new role at Macquarie.

3) The question I hear most often in my work is…
How are you settling in? Often followed by an offer of support.

4) I’m scared of…
Sharks.

5) The bravest thing I’ve done is…
Completing a two-mile sea swim at age 13 despite the above fear!

6) My mother/father always told me…
To always do what is right and that you can achieve anything you put your mind to.

7) A place that’s special to me is…
Sri Lanka – a gem of the Indian Ocean.

8) My guilty pleasure is…
Indulging in chocolate.

9) Something I’ve never done but wanted to try is…
Experience the sensation of skydiving.

10) A moment I’ll always remember is…
Welcoming my children to this world.