Making a difference: Nurturing future leaders

Melbourne Co-op book shop manager Emily Aliaga says her popular outlet, like ACU, works to nurture future leaders in innovative and engaging ways, encouraging knowledge and development. "It is evident to me that everyone at ACU works tirelessly to make a difference in their students’ lives and the environment that ACU fosters."

Emily shares here ACU story.

"I started working at the Co-op ACU Melbourne in July 2015. Coming from an apparel retail management background, the world of books and universities was completely new to me.

But everyone from the Co-op and ACU were fantastic, and helped ensure my transition was as easy as possible. I’ve now settled into my role here happily and feel very much at home.

With my sister working at Swinburne University and my mother as a teacher, it was only fitting that I fell into an educational institution like ACU. I love that I can have fun at work and even on the busiest days find time to have a dance around the store!

Having worked at the Co-op for almost a year now, I am thrilled to have this opportunity to reflect upon my time here and the impact ACU has made on me.

As the manager of the Co-op ACU Melbourne, I get to experience all aspects of the ACU culture, and have the unique opportunity to collaborate and liaise with all the friendly staff and students.

Everyone has been incredibly kind and welcoming to myself and the entire Co-op team, and wholeheartedly embraced the introduction of the Co-op with open arms.

ACU students and staff all bring their own individual qualities and unique needs to the table,  and we enjoy being able to meet the needs of anyone who walks in the Co-op’s door. We pride ourselves on being able to accommodate every distinct request, be it obtaining overseas texts or finding the last Pop! Vinyl figure to complete a collection!

The word Co-op comes from cooperative, meaning we are a member-owned organisation, and we always encourage students to become members. It only costs $25 and is a lifetime membership that offers a ton of benefits.

It not only allows us to better engage with people during and after their studies, it also means people are able to access the full range of member-only discounts and exclusive offers.

The Co-op values are very much in line with ACU’s, as well as my own."