My name is James Wright and I studied natural resource management at Adelaide University. 

I chose to work for DAFF because I grew up on a farm, I had an interest in agriculture.

After studying natural resource management, that led me to think that I might be able to contribute to the bigger picture, being at DAFF. 

I have to say, my favourite thing about the Graduate Program would be arriving in Canberra, not knowing anyone, but almost instantly being introduced to about 50 people from around Australia - all similar age, similar interests and a range of different backgrounds. 

My second favourite thing about the DAFF Graduate Program would have to be the work/life balance. I think we all agree that a happy employee is a good employee. So I think that's something which DAFF goes by. 

My rotations within the Natural Resource Management Division, in AQIS, in the Exports Division and the Bureau of Rural Sciences have given me the opportunity to be in day-to-day contact with stakeholders and industry and the general public on general information requests. 

The support I received from DAFF to move to Canberra was unbelievable. They moved myself and my partner over here with all of our belongings, they flew us over, they put us up in a hotel for about a month to give us an opportunity to meet all of the graduates and to find a house. 

The things I like most about living in Canberra? Well, there's quite a few. Since moving to Canberra, I've taken up mountain bike riding, snowboarding. The coast is not far away. There is a good social life out of work, so there's plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great restaurants and sporting activities. 

If you're considering joining the DAFF Graduate Program, I'd seriously consider it. It's a great start to your career.Canberra's a great place to live and you'll meet a lot of people. 

Biggest surprise about the Graduate Program would have to be when I started, I thought I would be spending a lot more time out in the field, but I've actually been spending more of my time in the office, which I've enjoyed and learned a lot from.