Celebrating graduate Jane Chen

As the first member of her family to attend university, Jane made the most of the support and opportunities that RMIT offers while completing her PhD.

Three and a half years ago, when Jane decided to undergo the vigorous process of completing her PhD, Jane found RMIT’s emphasis on quality research, industry connections and a dynamic, supportive culture to be exactly what she needed.

“For my PhD, I conducted an empirical study on equity crowdfunding using U.S. data.

The research examines the association between board composition and equity-crowdfunded firm performance and investigates the impact of investor protection measures on the performance of crowdfunding platforms,.” said Jane

Having been the first member of her family to complete university, it was her colleagues and stakeholders who convinced Jane that RMIT would have the best support and resources to allow her to pursue further academic studies.

“Now that I am part of the university community and have first-hand experience, I can testify to this.”

Resilience and Adaptability

After completing her full-time Master of Commerce while continuing to work full time, the decision to begin her PhD wasn’t easy.

“I realised after entering the workplace that being highly competent and skilled at what you do wasn’t enough,” she said.

“I hadn’t planned to enter the education sector or pursue a PhD, so it was a bit of a roller coaster.”

The resilience and the support received from the supervisory team, the school and the university allowed Jane to pursue further interests outside of her academic studies and thrive when a significant portion of her study was conducted remotely during COVID-19 lockdowns.

After participating in research committees and contributing to the Research and Innovation Future Directions planning workshop, her achievements were recognised in 2021 as a recipient of the Dean’s Merit Award.

The time saved by not having to commute allowed Jane to take on side projects within the university, including working as a research assistant and supporting course development.

I like to view challenges as opportunities in disguise for growth, learning and other positive outcomes

RMIT graduate Jane Chen.

Jane encourages students to get involved in the wealth of opportunities RMIT offers beyond classes.

“Allow some time to explore and engage in the diverse range of events at the university to connect and build connections with peers, professionals and academics,” she encouraged.

“Where possible, partake in activities targeted towards Higher Degree Research (HDR) students, partake in volunteering and keep a curious and inquisitive mindset.”

“Attend workshops, seminars, conferences and industry events to strengthen professional knowledge and transferable skills”

“Keep an open mind and continue to learn new concepts and build practical skills."

What’s next?

Jane is now employed by RMIT as a sessional lecturer, tutor and course coordinator as she conducts further research work.

“As a researcher, educator and life-long learner, I intend to continue delivering quality and effective teaching, while collaborating with fellow academics and industry partners to produce impactful research outputs and project outcomes.”

Jane is continuing to take every opportunity presented to grow and develop her skills.

“I am undertaking a number of short courses and workshops to enhance and update my professional knowledge and build my network to stay informed of opportunities that arise.”

14 November 2023

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Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.

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Celebrating graduate Jane Chen