When Ghokkul Muhunthan went to an IT job interview with Family Success Matters, his focus was on highlighting his software development skills and experience, yet it was a question concerning how he felt about working with others that gave him the extra edge.

“I told them about the AUT Edge Award and explained how it covered leadership and volunteering and employability and that I felt I had become much better person for doing it. They said they were looking for a person whose values would fit well with the company and someone who could work well with people in the office but outside the office as well,” says Ghokkul.

He believes he got the role because he not only had the required technical skills through his software development degree, but also could demonstrate through the award that he had a genuine interest in helping people and an ability to work with a range of people.

Family Success Matters supports parents with free programmes around healthcare, education, safety and parenting. As IT support technician, Ghokkul works for the main office of Family Success Matters for three days a week and spends the other two days working for another arm of the organisation, Fathers for Families.

Ghokkul’ s role is to support the technology required to efficiently run the programmes and administration, from projector screens to software programs to Office360. He also helps ensure resources are IT user friendly.

“I really enjoy the role because it combines my passion for making a meaningful impact using my technical skills to directly contribute to improving processes and outcomes for families, and that really reinforces my enthusiasm for my job,” says Ghokkul.

“With Fathers for Families I’m also doing graphic design by helping with the website design and the merchandise. Occasionally I also help with the Tuesday night meal that they run.”

Change over AUT journey

When Ghokkul first started AUT four years as an introverted 18-year-old, his only focus had been on study.

“I thought then that success was only defined by academic success, and I’d just go to class, come home and study, and not talk to anyone I didn’t know. But now, although I’m still an introvert, I communicate a lot better, and I feel much more confident.”

He credits much of this transformation to the AUT Edge Award, particularly taking on the role of student ambassador as part of the award’s leadership hours.

“That was a big jump for me. Having to address groups of students was an enormous challenge but through the training I learned to connect on a personal level by sharing stories and insights about my own experiences at AUT.”

Ghokkul says this really improved his communication skills, as did working as a volunteer at a hospice where he was continually interacting with strangers in meaningful ways.

“I got pushed to develop new interpersonal skills, and that flowed into my study. I started getting involved in group discussions and projects. I never used to like teamwork because I felt uncomfortable interacting with my peers.”

An academic highlight for Ghokkul was a software development practice paper that focused on collaboration, communication and leadership, as well as front end developer and user interface design skills.

“Our group developed an app, Shape-Up-NZ, to assist users in their wellness journey, by providing tools and features to help them achieve their fitness goals. That opportunity was thrilling and daunting and really pushed me to collaborate and communicate,” he explains.

Ghokkul enrolled in software development because his father works in IT and Ghokkul thought it sounded interesting. He is enjoying also using the graphic design skills he gained at high school and is contemplating one day combining those two skills by undertaking an architecture or engineering qualification.

“I now know that I will keep on learning and growing, and my future could be in any of these areas. However right now I’m pleased to be using my IT skills at Family Success Matters,” says the 23-year-old.

Tips from Ghokkul

• I encourage students to dive into extra-curricular activities, internships, and community service to build a diverse skill set and strong networks.
• Set clear goals and focus on developing soft skills and communication.
• Remember to balance your efforts with self-care and resilience, as these will help you achieve both academic and broader life success.

Want to find out about AUT Edge Award or Beyond AUT Award?

Both awards (one for undergraduates and one for postgraduate students) are run by the AUT Employability and Careers team. 

To find out more about the awards, email AUT Employability Award specialist Horowai Broederlow or go to Elab Online and book into an introductory workshop.

To get help with job search, CV and cover letter, networking, career decision making etc, please book an appointment or workhop at Elab Online. You can do these online or in person at the Employability Lab at WA202.