Life beyond Radford
Andy Brown
- Bachelor Degree, University of Wollongong, Economics & International Business Management
- Kaplan Business School Pty Limited, Diploma of Financial Planning, 2015-2016
- Investment Analyst
- New Client Manager, Dixon Advisory USA, 2016-2017
- Advice Practice Manager - Advice & Trading, Evans Dixon, 2017-Present
What does life look for you now?
I am currentIy residing in Sydney, having moved here from New York previously. I graduated from the University of Wollongong 2014 and have continued to develop my technical and research capacity in a professional environment. At this time, I am currently working as an Advice Practice Manager for Evans Dixon splitting most of my time between the Brisbane, Sydney and Canberra offices.
Prior to this, I spent 12 months working in New York City in an Investment Property Fund as an Investment Analyst to enhance my knowledge of the broader investment markets. Whilst studying at Wollongong, I exchanged to University of Connecticut to broaden my educational horizons, planting the seeds which would end up with me moving back to the USA.
When you were young, what were you hoping to be when you grew up?
It was a mix, Doctor, Comedian, Professiobal Rugby Player, Movie Produ er..... I could never decide on an occupation. I decided that all I wanted to be when I grew up was 'happy'.
What is your favourite Radford moment?
Fondest memory is from 2010 during the Radford Rugby Gala Day.
1st XV were required to get in early, dressed in full winter school uniform and watch all the games from the Juniors up to our match. We all loved this initiative because not only did this bring the Rugby Fraternity together, but every single Radford team won their game. I still credit that it was a result of the positive support from all the age groups attending each and every match on this day.
Do you have a particular role model or inspirational figure from Radford or now?
Mr. Whitbourne.
He was my History teacher from 2009 - 2010. It wasn't his teaching style that I particularly found inspiring, but the fact that he had retired from an industry he had worked in for 20 years and went and did something that he loved with a passion (History).
While I wasn't the best History student, his emphatic passion for the subject was the reason he had an impact on me.
Did your further study or career go exactly as you'd planned?
I don't think I have ever met someone who stuck to their projected Year 12 study/ career path. I didn't expect to move to Wollongong for Uni, Sydney, Brisbane and New York for work, but so happy I took these opportunities.
Overall, the experiences that I have found memorable/ defining are the ones which come up unexpectantly. Don't be afraid to diverge from your prpjectwd path, it may be for the better.
What do you know now, that you wish you'd known when you were at Radford?
- It's OK to not know what you want.
- Don't be afraid to ask the 'Stupid' questions
- Don’t take yourself so seriously all the time. Laugh. Often. Laugh from your belly whenever possible.
- Meet as many people as possible, they are likely to help you reach your career goals.
- Some people will give you good advice; listen to them. Others don’t know what they’re talking about; learn to distinguish between the two. You will know in your gut when others’ advice is sound. (And I hope mine is.)
What advice do you have for current students?
- There is no better lesson than Failure. Failure is a catalyst for Success.
- Travel, you are young and have time.... bloody use it! Consider an exchange semester
- Find the right balance between Study and Social Life. People mistake that solely Academics get you employed! Dont fall into that trap.
- Meet as many people as possible. These are your contacts for the future.
- Most importantly: Have fun, don't take it too seriously and enjoy the ride.