PhD graduate Lauren Clay: Reaching the end of a nine-year PhD journey

Witnessing the profound impact of natural disasters on tourism and communities worldwide sparked Lauren Clay’s quest to explore if governments could learn from each other to speed up the recovery process.

Lauren wanted to understand how communication could contribute to long-term natural disaster recovery and policy setting.

Drawing from 15 years in government communications, Lauren had seen the consequences of overlooking communicative aspects in policy formulation.

“Some policies are difficult to understand and implement and, without adequate consultation, they may fail to address the real issues, needs and expectations of communities.”

Lauren was attracted to the complexity of natural disaster recovery, noting that there needed to be a stronger link between academia and industry.

Her research aims to benefit government leaders, managers, practitioners and policy makers, by framing a best-practice approach to post-disaster destination brand repositioning.

Lauren’s study heavily relied on interviewing high-profile leaders, and their involvement motivated Lauren to persevere through her 9-year research journey.

“I had to make sure that the time the participants gave me was justified and that I would deliver on my promise to record their experiences.”

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RMIT graduate Lauren Clay.

Lauren managed to maintain balance between her full-time job and study, but it was a challenge.

“Some days felt like I was performing mental gymnastics, as my attention flipped between the practicalities of work and the philosophical and conceptual considerations of study.”

“It was important for me to take time for wellbeing, exercise and maintain healthy eating. I didn’t deny myself a treat and a relaxed work and study-free day when that was needed.”

Lauren’s supervisors provided great support, guidance and encouragement, which she says made her PhD journey at RMIT such a positive experience.

Lauren’s RMIT journey started 20 years ago when she enrolled in her undergraduate degree, and she is grateful for finally completing her PhD in 2024.

“I’m excited about my next chapter where I can embrace more opportunities with greater confidence and knowledge.”

Watch the graduation live stream here

07 May 2024

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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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PhD graduate Lauren Clay: Reaching the end of a nine-year PhD journey