Getting to know Carol Triantafyllidis
Carol Triantafyllidis
Name: Carol Triantafyllidis
Title: Coordinator - Projects
Faculty/Division: Campus Community Division
Dept: Equity and Diversity Centre
Campus: Clayton
How long have you worked at Monash?
My life at Monash started in December 2005 as a Student Services Officer in the Faculty of Business and Economics. Mid 2007 I commenced my role in the Equity and Diversity Centre.
Where did you work prior to starting at the University? Previously I worked at Deakin University for 12 years in the Marketing Division.
What do you like best about your role?
I enjoy the variety my role offers and the staff and students I engage with when coordinating projects such as Diversity and Inclusion Week and the Vice-Chancellor’s Social Inclusion Awards; no two days are alike. It is rewarding to see the impact and the successful outcomes of these projects.
Why did you choose your current career path?
Originally I wanted to teach, but that was not to be, so the next logical step was to work in education. I was fortunate to be offered a short-term contract more than 20 years ago in tertiary education and I haven’t looked back.
First job?
I was a teller at the State Bank.
Worst job? I really haven’t had a ‘worst job’, although before joining the teritary education sector I worked in a hot bread shop on weekends, which I could have done without.
What research/projects are you currently working on and what does it involve?
One of my major projects that also inspires me is the annual Diversity and Inclusion Week, which includes the Vice-Chancellor’s Social Inclusion Awards. The project is a collaborative effort with staff across the University coordinating events showcasing and celebrating social inclusion at Monash.
What is your favourite place in the world and why?
There are so many beautiful places, that to name one would be difficult. My top three would be Venice, Italy; Nice, France; and Mykonos, Greece.
What is your favourite place to eat and why?
I love Mediterrean and Middle Eastern cuisines. Dunyazad in North Balwyn never disappoints and a recent meal at Maha was fabulous.
What is the best piece of advice you have received?
One piece of sound advice I received was: "Always treat people with integrity, honesty and respect." Sometimes I need to take a breath, but it has never let me down.
Tell us something about yourself that your colleagues wouldn’t know?
My grandfather was a professor in French, and as I fear that I am losing the little French I have, I am taking French lessons. Also in 2011 I earned my MBA.