As a Heritage Conservation Intern, Rosalin gained hands-on experience in assessing and managing heritage assets, from preparing inventory listings to conducting historical research.
"Working at the City of Sydney has been an incredibly rewarding experience," Rosalin shares.
"Collaborating with such a passionate and skilled team has deepened my appreciation for the intricate balance between urban development and heritage conservation."
During her time with the council, she put her classroom learning into practice by working on real-world projects that aligned with her academic interests.
“One highlight was participating in site visits and panel discussions, where I observed the collaborative process of assessing development proposals and balancing heritage conservation with urban planning.”
Rosalin also enjoyed delving into archival documents to uncover the stories behind heritage sites.
“It was both fascinating and rewarding to piece together the historical significance of places and see how this research informs conservation efforts. Experiencing how theory translates into practice and contributing, even in small ways, to the preservation of Sydney’s heritage has been incredibly fulfilling.”
The internship brought challenges that would help Rosalin develop her industry-ready skills. She has gained insight into the intricacies of navigating complex heritage planning control. She worked through this challenging work by dedicating time to research and seeking guidance from her mentors.
"Their patience and willingness to share their expertise made all the difference, and I’ve come to appreciate the value of asking questions and seeking support when needed."
As she looks ahead to life after graduation, Rosalin feels well-prepared. She reflects on how the internship has strengthened her understanding of the field and prepared her for the workforce by developing essential skills like collaboration, critical thinking, and adaptability.
"This internship has equipped me with practical skills, a deeper understanding of heritage conservation, and a clearer sense of how I can contribute to the field professionally."
The experience also clarified her passions, interests, and potential career paths.
“Beyond the technical knowledge, this experience reinforced the importance of balancing development with conservation—something I’m passionate about pursuing in my career after graduation.”
Rosalin advises students entering a work experience opportunity to take initiative and be inquisitive.
"Be proactive and embrace every opportunity to learn. Don't hesitate to ask questions—your supervisors and colleagues are there to guide you, and those conversations can be incredibly insightful."
“Most importantly, stay curious and enjoy the process!”
This internship has equipped me with practical skills, a deeper understanding of heritage conservation, and a clearer sense of how I can contribute to the field professionally.