3-minute read
When IPAA NSW marked its 90th anniversary last year, it celebrated the future of the public sector by awarding its first-ever scholarships. Among the three recipients selected from more than 300 applicants was Allissa Arnold, Associate Director, Transformation at the Department of Creative Industries, Tourism, Hospitality and Sport.
Her story is one of backing yourself, staying open to opportunity, and investing in growth. Read on for what she says:
Q: You came to university later than many people. What led you to take that step?
A: After high school, university didn’t feel like the right fit. I chose TAFE for its practical, hands-on approach. But in my late twenties, my mindset shifted. I started thinking about what a meaningful career could look like and how I could contribute more. By my thirties, I knew I wanted to go further than my qualifications could take me. It felt like a big leap, but once I enrolled, I never looked back.
Q: What motivated you to keep investing in your development?
A: It wasn’t always easy. Studying meant time away from my family, but they’ve been incredibly supportive. The experience gave me more than knowledge. It built my self-awareness, broadened my thinking and helped me find real purpose in my work. That clarity about where I’m going continues to drive me.
Q: How did you hear about the IPAA scholarship?
A: I first saw it in a message from our Secretary, and then it kept appearing on LinkedIn and the IPAA website. It stood out straight away as a meaningful opportunity to keep learning.
Q: Did you hesitate before applying?
A: Not at all. I knew I had nothing to lose. I took the time to put together a strong application, but I was clear about my purpose and what I wanted to achieve.
Q: You seem very open to new opportunities. Where does that mindset come from?
A: I once attended training on growth mindset, and a key takeaway stayed with me. Growth comes from choosing the unfamiliar, even when it’s uncomfortable. It’s not automatic. You have to be deliberate about it every day.
Q: What part of the scholarship experience has energised you most?
A: The connections. The training is valuable, but engaging with senior leaders across the sector has been invaluable, and they’ve introduced me to other people in their networks. Drawing on their experience and insights helps me challenge my own assumptions and consider new possibilities for my future. Exposure to senior leaders makes them more human and relatable; showing me that I have the potential to reach that level myself.
Q: Has the experience changed how you see your potential?
A: It’s changed how I see everyone’s potential. We’re all capable of going further than we think, but we need the right opportunities to get there. Even small shifts in skills or direction can open up completely new paths.
Q: What would you say to someone unsure about applying?
A: Show up and give it a go. You’ve got nothing to lose. But be clear about why you’re applying. It’s not just about some free training, it’s about the impact you want to have.
Q: Why is it important to stay open to opportunities like this?
A: Because you never know where they’ll lead. The real value goes beyond what’s on paper. It’s the confidence, the connections and the doors that open afterwards.
As IPAA NSW launches its next round of scholarships, Allissa’s advice is "say yes and see where it takes you."
Take me to the Scholarships page