Peter Vu grew up in the western suburbs of Melbourne, in a family where academic and professional success were the norms. With siblings who excelled as dentists and midwives, the pressure to achieve was always present. Peter had a love for soccer, the outdoors and getting around his mates, but his life took a dramatic turn at six years old when he was diagnosed with a brain tumour.
This diagnosis led to a childhood marked by numerous surgeries, chemotherapy, and radiation treatments. Despite these challenges, Peter and his loving family tried to keep things as normal as possible, running around and playing like any other kid. However, another surgery at twelve drastically changed his life, and by sixteen, he had to adjust to using a wheelchair.
Peter’s determination to overcome these obstacles was unwavering. After two years out of school to focus on his cancer battle, he returned to complete his VCE at an adult high school. His strength with numbers led him to pursue a degree in accounting at Swinburne University. However, as he neared graduation, the uncertainty of what lay ahead began to weigh heavily on him.
Discovering GradWISE: A game-changer
At this crucial point in time, Peter discovered GradWISE, a program designed to bridge the employment gap for graduates with disabilities. Cody Junghans, a career coach with GradWISE, worked closely with Peter, alongside several other GradWISE coaches. Cody explained how GradWISE extends WISE Employment’s services to focus specifically on graduates, offering personalised coaching and support.
“GradWISE was a game-changer for me,” Peter shared. “Cody and the team provided guidance and encouragement that I hadn’t experienced before.”
Peter’s involvement with GradWISE began at an Industry Accessibility Week, which opened his eyes to the countless number of companies eager to work with students, just like him. The support from Cody and the GradWISE team was instrumental as Peter navigated through multiple internships. From a small accounting firm to Deloitte and the Royal Women’s Hospital, each experience helped Peter refine his career goals and understand exactly what he was looking for in a workplace and his career.
Transitioning to the workforce with confidence
The journey wasn’t without its challenges. Peter described how GradWISE helped him manage the stress of transitioning from university to the workforce. The program’s holistic approach included practical skills like resume writing and interview preparation, as well as softer skills such as confidence building and mindfulness.
“The comprehensive support from GradWISE was crucial, especially during high-pressure situations,” Peter noted. “The career coaching and personalised advice helped me build confidence and tackle each interview with a positive mindset.”
Peter’s hard work and the support from GradWISE paid off when he received an offer from BDO, a mid-tier professional services firm, for a role in their tax consulting team. Peter recalled the moment he informed BDO of a counter-offer from Deloitte, which led them to make a counter of their own.
“It was a surreal moment,” Peter said. “Having two offers from top firms was something I never thought possible. The support from GradWISE made me believe in my potential and gave me the tools I needed to succeed.”
Reflecting on an incredible journey
The program provided not only the practical tools needed to secure a job but also the emotional and psychological support to thrive. Cody and the GradWISE team were there every step of the way, ensuring that Peter was prepared and confident as he transitioned into the workforce.
“The support I received from GradWISE was unparalleled,” Peter said. “They believed in me and gave me the confidence to believe in myself.”
Join Peter Vu and Cody Junghans from the GradWISE team for some WISE WORDS to learn more about Peter’s inspiring story, how GradWISE supported his employment journey, and how they can support you too!
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