Onto the next chapter

On the occasion of his graduation, Max Cleversley reflects howattending ANU was one of the best decisionshe's ever made. 

Hailing from the town of Macksville on the mid-north coast of New South Wales, Max moved to Canberra at the start of 2018 to embark on a double degree of International Security Studies (ISS) and Arts. As part of his studies, Max undertook majors in Italian and securitystudies and minors in German and Middle Eastern and Central Asian Studies.  

"I was attracted to come to ANU for the uniqueness of international security studies as an undergraduate degree as well as the ability to study multiple languages at once," Max says.  

Upon arriving in Canberra, Max threw himself into life at ANU.  

One of the highlights from his degrees was undertaking an immersive short course, Global Rome: Culture and Identity in the Italian Capital, in 2019. Max spent three weeks in Rome attending daily classes and exploringsignificant neighborhoods, cultural sites, museums and film locations. 

Thechance to travel outside the classroom provided Max with an invaluable opportunity to practise his Italian language skills and immerse himself in Italian culture. 

Alongside his studies, he undertook an internship at the Department of Education and worked in the Future Student Experience team.  

"I am grateful to ANU for providing me with a lot of memorable opportunities - such as living on campus, going overseas, and getting involved in student leadership teams," he says. 

While it is bittersweet for Max to be finishing his undergraduate journey, he is looking forward to the next chapter.  

He is now completing a Graduate Certificate in Environmental Management with a focus on biosecurity, an interest that stemmed from his ISS degree. He then plans to undertake a Master's degree before beginning his professional career in the Australian Public Service.