Neary Ty (BA(Media&Comm)’13) is an award-winning journalist at the Nine Network and a graduate of Deakin University’s Bachelor of Arts (Media and Communication). She recently returned to Deakin to volunteer her time and expertise on the judging panel for the University’s Three Minute Thesis (3MT®) Grand Final event.
We sat down with Neary to find out what made her say yes to being a judge, and why she’s looking forward to her next volunteering opportunity at Deakin.
I’ve only connected with the Deakin alumni community in the past few years. It honestly feels so special to be part of this group. Seeing everyone’s success stories and hearing about where postgrad students are today, especially making a difference in the world, makes me so proud to be a Deakin alum!
I’d never really heard about the 3MT® competition until I was asked to judge it, but I say yes to most things. I’m always wanting to learn more and connect with people. After more than a decade at Nine, I’d like to say I have plenty of experience broadcasting to a wider audience, spending most days trying to condense a lot of information into one minute, 30 second news packages. I was so intrigued by how the researchers were going to condense years of study into three-minute talks. Let me say, I was absolutely blown away by everyone’s passion, commitment and talent.
This was my first time volunteering as a Deakin alum and I would absolutely do it again. I absolutely loved the experience. I was briefed and given all the information that I needed, I didn’t feel stressed at all. I’ve always wanted to do my own PhD and seeing these researchers in action has reignited my drive. It takes so much discipline to be able to commit and delve into a topic.
If you’re thinking of volunteering at Deakin, or you haven’t started thinking about it yet give it a go. It’s always so nice to reconnect. I loved judging the 3MT® competition. It feels really nice to be called back to Deakin and acknowledged for your own skills and talent.
Want to be a volunteer like Neary?
A massive thank you to the wonderful Deakin alumni sharing their time and expertise with the Deakin community. We’re busy creating all kinds of opportunities for our alumni to volunteer at Deakin. Whether you’re eager to enhance the student experience, strengthen the alumni network or offer your expertise and support, we’re building ways for you to get involved! If you’re interested, apply to become a volunteer.