Kushagra Jhurani, originally from Rajasthan in India, applied for “at least” 200 jobs across Australia.
The recent graduate with a Masters of Architecture degree obtained in 2020 from the University of Melbourne met with no success.
Kushagra told ABC Radio Melbourne that his countless cold calls and a few interviews didn’t result in a single job offer:
“I thought OK, nothing was working out, so I should apply my designer skills and mind. I looked at all the stations, how many people were coming through, and figured out where would be the best place to advertise myself.”
So, at the end of March 2021, Kushagra stood opposite Southern Cross and Flinders Street train stations with a sign saying:
“Looking 4 a graduate of architecture? HIRE ME.”
He stood outside the stations for 3 weeks from morning from 8:00 am to 9:15 am.
In April, Metro Trains’ digital engineering manager Scott Poll who was heading to work spotted Kushagra on Spencer Street with his sign.
Scott gave Kushagra a warm smile and tried to figure out if he had a job that could suit the job seeker.
“When I got to the office I thought I need to go back and talk to him, but unfortunately when I’d gone back he had disappeared.”
After a search on LinkedIn, message exchange, conversation and a formal interview process, Kushagra was offered a position as a draftsperson with Metro.
“I thought that’s a young kid with a lot of courage to be able to do that, at one of the busiest intersections in the city,” Mr Poll said.
Scott sincerely felt hopeful the following about Kushagra:
“If he is willing to do that, I know he is going to be willing to be a hard worker.”
Kushagra is now employed with Metro Trains and enjoying his work creating 3D models. His advise to others facing similar situation in Australia is:
“Do not hesitate to do anything to get a job. Put yourself out there. Not necessarily what I did, but you shouldn’t be scared — you can only give your best shot.”
WATCH VIDEO: Kushagra Jhurani’s student project – ‘A Memory Temple’
