Claudia Low

Course: Bachelor of Arts (majoring in Creative Writing and Mass Communications), 2009
Nationality: Malaysian
Current role: Creative Director, Ampersand Advisory

Why did you choose to study Arts?

I’ve always had an interest in creative writing but specifically wanted to go to Monash because of the syllabus, and units offered. I wanted to take the TV and film, media studies, postcolonial units and gender studies – and round off my course of study.

In my time, there was actually just a Bachelor of Mass Communications, during which, I focused on the communication, journalism and PR units. I was really fortunate for a Bachelor of Arts to be made available during my second year, so I could swap over to Creative Writing, where my interests truly lay.

How have your studies at Monash helped to prepare you for the working world?

Monash’s syllabus focused more on technique, theory and perspective while encouraging critical thinking. I also got the social and practical experience I needed from being a part of the Student Council and MONGA.

Combined, my entire experience at Monash prepared me for the real and working world. It gave me all the tools, resources and confidence required to be a team player from the get-go, and a manager within three years of graduating.

Did you participate in any student activities or opportunities while at Monash?

I was an Arts Representative in my second year, and then a Women’s Officer in my third. And also a part of MONGA throughout.

What did you enjoy most about your student life at Monash?

Hands down, I loved my lecturers the most. There’s a different quality in learning when you’ve got the right kind of support.

I owe a lot to Dr Sharon Bong, Andrew Ng and Yeoh Seng Guan – they each, in different ways, helped build the right kind of confidence I needed to formulate and express myself and my opinions.

What are your career goals? What is the difference you'd like to make?

I don’t have a definitive idea of success, and I don’t think I’d find it in power, glory, recognition or riches. At Lion & Lion, we have values that I’m 100% aligned with: to do the right thing (not necessarily the easiest), to be impactful, and to help people grow.

Now, If I were to couple that with Monash’s “Ancora Imparo”, I’d say that I’m living out my ambitions, and am being the difference that I’d like to see in my industry, and hopefully as a woman, in this part of the world.