Robyn McLean
Graduate
Information Science/ Management
In an industry traditionally dominated by men, Robyn McLean is forging ahead and challenging this convention.
The School of Business graduate completed a double degree in Information Science (BSc) and Management (BCom) last year, passing the course with flying colours, and receiving a scholarship and a job to boot.
"In Information Science you're looking at business rules and how to match them through information systems, not just code - which is what people most associate with computer degrees. All the girls I went through the course with ended up near the top of the class, which was great to see," says Robyn.
"I found the problem-solving aspect of the Information Science degree a challenge that I really enjoyed. It also fitted in really well with my Management degree as information systems feature a lot in Operations Management."
Her skill in the area was rewarded in 2005 with the Hewlett-Packard Scholarship - an award offered annually to a University of Otago student studying Information Science or Computer Science as a major.
The award put her in good stead for job opportunities and she successfully obtained a place with New Zealand Post through the University's Graduate Recruitment programme run through the Careers Advisory Service.
"Information Science and Management are excellent majors that you can complement with a number of degrees and other majors. One of the best things about Otago - aside from the lifestyle - is the flexibility of the courses."