Alumni Profile: Andrea Wee
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Degree: Arts (Honours) 2005Current Position: Film Librarian, Singapore National Library Board. Andrea Wee has always had a strong interest in film but it took a giant leap of faith for her to pursue a career in it. Now she is working for a leading resource for South East Asian researchers and practictioners in the performing arts. What does your work involve?I’m a film librarian with the Singapore National Library Board. Duties include managing and expanding the film collection, programming and maintaining the service standards of the library officers. |
What does a standard day at work entail for you?
There is no standard day at work. I can be involved with various activities such as film/book reviews, resource lists, customer feedback, film programming and promotional meetings etc. Each day is varied and interesting.
What’s the most difficult decision you have had to make in your career?
Making that leap of faith with the decision to pursue my interest in film and trying to make a living out of it.
What is the most enjoyable aspect of your job?
I take pride in the fact that I get to play an important role in contributing to the nascent film industry in Singapore, especially with regards to selecting films for the library and programming programs where filmmakers can meet and network! Besides this, my library aims to be the first stop in South East Asia for researchers and practioners in the performing arts and we are trying to expand our outreach programs to the young. This makes me feel like we have the necessary vision and support to grow our niche library.
What inspires you about your job and life in general?
That opportunities come knocking when you keep an open mind and are courageous enough to pursue something that feels right for you.
What is the most stressful or difficult aspect of your job?
Dealing with difficult people, whether they are patrons of the library or internal employees.
What led you to study at the University of Melbourne?
I wanted a relatively inexpensive but first-rate education.
What are your strongest memories of life in Melbourne while you were studying at University of Melbourne?
The carefree and creative vibe in and around Melbourne Uni and the city.
What do you like to do in your spare time – hobbies etc?
Travelling – I did a bit of travelling around Australia during my studies and sky-dived and did a spot of hot-air ballooning in New Zealand after graduation. I would love to take a year off and back pack around Europe.
Do you have any advice about life/career after study to pass on to current students?
Yes. The first job you take after graduation is extremely important because it sets the tone of your career. So take the time to decide what jobs or careers that you can imagine sticking with for the next ten years. Then be patient while you apply for those jobs. The offers may not be many because you have narrowed your options, but if you are offered the right job, you will be very happy!
