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Student Stories

Star Wang

North Geelong Secondary College

Studying abroad is a very interesting thing. Fortunately, my father has an opportunity to be a visitor of Deakin University, which is in Geelong this summer holiday. Because of this, I am able to go to Australia to study for nearly a team.

I first heard and came to Geelong last summer holiday, but I haven’t study there. This time, I go to North Geelong Secondary College for study. Before I came there, I only knew Geelong is a city in Australia which has a very good location. It is in a gulf on the South Coast of the country, and it’s also in the Victoria state that is called the Garden state and the Education state. But now I know the people there are more hospitable, the drivers there are more polite, the equipment there is more useful, and the air there is much fresher and clearer.

Studying in Geelong is very easy if you do very well in English. Because of this, the most important thing about study here is to understand the teacher’s words and expressions of language. Now I’m looking forward to speaking English fluently. If you are a new international student who will study in NGSC and want to get some recommendations from me, I can only tell you that don’t expect that you can understand every word of teachers, learn steadily step by step, and pay more attention to English.

When I go back to China and study in my school, I’ll tell my classmates about study in Australia. I’ll suggest them to study in Geelong just because it has perfect location, friendly residents, amazing environment, kind teachers, and excellent schools.

Star Wang

North Geelong Secondary College

Studying abroad is a very interesting thing. Fortunately, my father has an opportunity to be a visitor of Deakin University, which is in Geelong this summer holiday. Because of this, I am able to go to...

Jeanne Odette A Vandekatsey

The Gordon

Certificate III in Commercial Cookery
Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery
Diploma of Hospitality Management

“Studying at the Gordon has changed me most notably in my approach to work ethic and has taught me to persevere even more throughout my day to day life. Beyond this, being a student at the Gordon has boosted my confidence to thrive in the workplace. My technique has improved, with many thanks to all the staff and the expertise, the advice and support I received from them has been so relevant and for that I’m so grateful. It has encouraged me in striving for accuracy and precision in what I do, as well as trusting my instincts or intuition in a specific moment, for these new acquired attributes, I cannot thank the Gordon enough.”

Jeanne Odette A Vandekatsey

The Gordon

Certificate III in Commercial Cookery
Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery
Diploma of Hospitality Management

“Studying at the Gordon...

Apinya

Deakin English Language Institute (DUELI)

Hear from former DUELI student Apinya how studying English in Geelong helped her realise undertaking her PhD.

Apinya

Deakin English Language Institute (DUELI)

Hear from former DUELI student Apinya how studying English in Geelong helped her realise undertaking her PhD.

Jean

Marcus Oldham College

The opportunity to study abroad was too difficult to resist when I was offered a place at Marcus Oldham College to study Horse Business Management. Horses have been my greatest interest since I was young.

Studying at Marcus Oldham has provided an unforgettable educational experience for me to study and stay in a foreign culture. Australia’s culture is a totally new experience for me as I have grown up and live in an Asian country.

I will always remember and appreciate all the assistance, guidance, care and warmth from the staff at Marcus Oldham. As an international student, I felt they were attentive to the welfare of a foreign student and always willing to go the extra mile. The experience at Marcus Oldham has also compelled me to be highly independent, especially when it involved looking after a horse that I leased from the College, going to equestrian competitions and finding and arranging practical work placements.

While studying abroad, I enjoyed the opportunity to discover a totally different culture, meeting local and other international students as well as working on horse properties in Australia and New Zealand.

After completing studies at Marcus Oldham, I worked in the Equestrian Centre at Penang Turf Club as an Administrative Executive and teaching basic riding lessons to beginners (after completing the introductory riding instructor’s course). Currently, I am the Racing Officer (Head of Department) at Penang Turf Club.

If you are thinking of studying abroad, take the opportunity when you have the chance. The experience of studying abroad is absolutely remarkable. I will forever cherish the wonderful memories attained at Marcus Oldham.

Jean

Marcus Oldham College

The opportunity to study abroad was too difficult to resist when I was offered a place at Marcus Oldham College to study Horse Business Management. Horses have been my greatest interest since I was...

Nima

DUELI

In August 2020 Nima undertook an online English language course with DUELI to prepare him for his PhD at Deakin University Waurn Ponds campus. Participating in DUELI course helped him to start a new chapter in his research journey as a PhD and research student in order to advance his professional activity and align it with artificial intelligence and machine learning. DUELI was a bridge to enter this stage. In particular, he enjoyed the small group interaction, which gave him confidence when speaking English with his peers. The course did more than improve his English though. It also helped him make friends, familiarised him with living in Geelong and prepared him for the move in January. Prior to this he and his wife (Katayoon) knew little about Geelong but were pleasantly surprised by how beautiful and picturesque the city is. “Geelong has great amenities, a beautiful beach and harbor, good restaurants and cafes, and the incredibly kind local people of different cultures from all over the world (multicultural city)” said Nima.

Nima promenade

Nima waterfront  

Figure 1. Geelong beautiful beach in summer and autumn.

 “The city's public transportation is another positive intersection, making it easy to get to and from the surrounding cities and Melbourne, as well as easy access to the city's suburbs. There are also many natural and recreational places around Geelong that can be visited” said Nima.

Nima Canoe

Nima tree

Figure 2. Exciting entertainments around Geelong

Nima horse

Figure 3. Visit the farms around Geelong.

“In addition, the facilities at Deakin are terrific, we enjoy participating in extracurricular activities such as football and Volleyball. Joining numerous student clubs helped me to increase my friendship” said Nima.

Nima Deakin exercise pics

Figure 4. A part of sports facilities of Deakin University Waurn Ponds campus

Nima and his wife (Katayoon) arrived in Melbourne from Iran in September 2019, as the top student (master’s degree in geotechnical engineering) at Tehran Polytechnic University with more than 6 years of experience in civil engineering and geotechnics in Iran. In his third week in Melbourne, he began working in his specialty, Geotechnical Engineering, as a Technical Geotechnical Officer and senior geotechnical engineer at La Trobe University, where he worked for 15 months prior to enrolling at Deakin University. During Corona's difficult days, he worked voluntarily to help his team and students. He is currently undertaking his PhD at Deakin in Geotechnical and also working as a senior laboratory manager at Federation University, Gippsland. He hopes to expand his work opportunities and improve his application of learning to assist Deakin in their research.

Nima work 

Figure 5. Work experience at La Trobe University

Nima

DUELI

In August 2020 Nima undertook an online English language course with DUELI to prepare him for his PhD at Deakin University Waurn Ponds campus. Participating in DUELI course...

Fardokht Lebaschi

The Gordon

Diploma of Beauty Therapy
Recipient of 2021 The Gordon International Student of the Year Award

“The most interesting part of the course is working with real clients, I have chance to chat with my clients, improve my English, to learn about Australian culture, provide them with different beauty therapy services, receive feedback from them, so I can evaluate my beauty therapy skills

Teachers at The Gordon are all lovely. I was the first international students studying beauty therapy, I was very nervous, but they are so helpful and always willing to offer extra help to me.”

Fardokht Lebaschi

The Gordon

Diploma of Beauty Therapy
Recipient of 2021 The Gordon International Student of the Year Award

“The most interesting part of the course is working with...

Shingi

Marcus Oldham College

 

I decided to study Agribusiness in Australia as a pathway to expand my agricultural production knowledge and build on experience I gained back home in Zimbabwe. Studying agribusiness abroad would be the best way to learn global agriculture dynamics and transfer the knowledge back home.  

I am happy to be studying alongside budding, ambitious and like-minded Australians who are passionate and tuned into agriculture. The mixture of farming backgrounds at the college has added value and quality to the educational experience. The course delivery is from an in-depth industry perspective which makes the course relevant to the outside world. The flexibility of the course structure, delivery and access to facilities has allowed me to study and still nurture my small family. The study tours of China, Hong Kong and New Zealand capped off the whole study experience.

Marcus Oldham is a small community with significant outside influence. The great sense of community, comradery and heritage made it easy to settle in, network and be part of. Meeting students who came from all across Australia has been a natural introduction to the diversity of the country. Marcus Oldham has brought out my ability to adjust to new environments and social settings and to find a niche role within any group. The best way to enjoy the Australian culture is to get involved and have a go. In amongst the multicultural array of the country, I have experienced the complexity of many regions through travelling, the rich natural landscape, the great outdoors and the sporting culture of Australia.

With a year to complete the Bachelor of Agribusiness, I hope the refined business skills will propel my career further. Currently, I am the Assistant Mushroom Grower at Parwan Valley Mushrooms, Victoria.

Studying abroad gives a different perspective on past experiences and natural knowledge. The moment you step out from your doorstep you open yourself up to the world. Studying abroad is an excellent opportunity to see a different way of doing things and create memories for life. There is a lot to learn and remember you also have just as much to offer.

 

Shingi

Marcus Oldham College

 

I decided to study Agribusiness in Australia as a pathway to expand my agricultural production knowledge and build on experience I gained back home in Zimbabwe. Studying agribusiness abroad...

Michael

Deakin College

Hear what Deakin College Engineering student Michael, from Indonesia, has to say about his experience at Deakin College and living in Geelong. Find out how Geelong inspired his interest in photography and his advice for prospective studentts.

Michael

Deakin College

Hear what Deakin College Engineering student Michael, from Indonesia, has to say about his experience at Deakin College and living in Geelong. Find out how Geelong inspired his interest in photography and...

Maria Sierra Zuluaga

The Gordon

Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques
Diploma of Laboratory Technology

 

“The Gordon TAFE went beyond my expectations in the quality of education and training. The environment at the Gordon is very inclusive and supportive, not only by teachers but also people who work in campus and even other classmates.

The thing I enjoy the most about the program at the Gordon TAFE is that is a very hands-on program. The Gordon TAFE experience does require from you as a student to be a proactive learner and to persevere when obstacles get in the way, but the most amazing thing is you will never face none of them alone, no matter whether is a personal issue in your life or an academic one.

I believe Laboratory Technology is a very interesting area to work at for those who appreciate, like laboratory work and Science. I see that in the Healthcare area, laboratory work is a growing field, with lots of work opportunities, and multiple challenging pathways to generate an impact in other people’s life and even your own.”

Maria Sierra Zuluaga

The Gordon

Certificate IV in Laboratory Techniques
Diploma of Laboratory Technology

 

“The Gordon TAFE went beyond my expectations in the quality of...

Atway

Deakin College

Atway is from Sudan and studied a Bachelor of Commerce. Hear his story about studying at Deakin College.

Atway

Deakin College

Atway is from Sudan and studied a Bachelor of Commerce. Hear his story about studying at Deakin College.

Jack Littler

Marcus Oldham College

 

Having grown up on a cropping property in the West Midlands of England I have always had a passion for agriculture. After spending 2 years working in a contract mustering team in Northern Australia, I recognised the diversity and scope in the agricultural industry. After realising the vast range of job opportunities, the agricultural industry in Australia had to offer me, I began to research means to expand my skills, knowledge and education of Australian agriculture which is how I came across Marcus Oldham.

Marcus Oldham stood out instantly as the superior agricultural tertiary educator in Australia after meeting some of the alumni across the country. The practicality of the course and the use of industry placements allows students to apply the knowledge throughout the course and explore various sectors. This was the element of the college that I enjoyed the most.

The Marcus Oldham experience gave me exposure to many different sectors of the industry, this has allowed me use my industry placement to work in several areas that I had never even considered. The network that is provided by the college has also been invaluable in developing knowledge in the Australian agricultural industry, from fellow students, alumni and company contacts.

The culture in Australia and within Marcus Oldham is one of the main reasons why I enjoy living in Australia. The comradery within the college itself is a direct reflection of the country’s ‘Can Do’ attitude.  Fellow students have a wide range of backgrounds and experience providing an environment where I have not only learnt from lectures but fellow students.

Studying abroad has allowed me to not only learn more about the agriculture industry but it has allowed me to travel within Australia and to countries close by that would usually be a significant distance!

I am currently studying 3rd year agribusiness and hope to become involved in the beef industry, my industry placement allowed me to gain valuable experience that will put me in a good position to achieve this.

Studying abroad allows you not only to learn from the educational institution but from the culture, allowing you to get a learning experience that is completely unique. Come and visit Australia and spend some time in the Australian agriculture industry, its diverse, exciting and progressive. Not to forget there are some pretty good sights to see!

 

Jack Littler

Marcus Oldham College

 

Having grown up on a cropping property in the West Midlands of England I have always had a passion for agriculture. After spending 2 years working in a contract mustering team in Northern...

YUHAO

North Geelong Secondary College

As far as we know, Australia is a multicultural and multinational country in the world. The Australian education is pretty distinguished and it has too many advantages so that it can attract more and more people to come to study the knowledge they like. As an international student from China, I will narrate my many interesting experiences and my feelings for Australia.

So why didn't I choose the other cities in Australia but I selected Geelong? When I lived in China, the pressure of every senior high school students is very heavy. To finish my homework, I had to go to school at 6:50am and go to sleep at about 1:00 in night. So I produced an original thought-go abroad to explore a new life which is both relaxing and I can learn some utile knowledge. In my opinions, I checked some cities and towns in Australia and learnt about the information of cities. Among the cities, when I saw the beautiful sceneries and colourful cultures, I fell love in the interesting town, Geelong. I was absorbed deeply by the environment and the enthusiasm of the people. A new journey for me has extended!

 With curiosity and excitement, I got off the airplane and observed everything surrounding me. What a beautiful city! What a great way! With the tender sunshine, I saw the wonderful view in my sight. Cool and refreshing sea wind fanned my face, the feeling was like in the fairyland. The wide blue sea was like a big piece of mirror even can see all kinds of fishes were swimming.

 Geelong-a glamorous place. It takes too much invaluable memory to me. I am studying in North Geelong Secondary College and I can choose more types of classes which I am interested in. I have made friends with many people including the teachers here. They are always very amiable and if I feel bored and helpless I always make a conversation with them to release my pressure. I still remembered that when I came to GEELONG initially, I even couldn't speak with the other people mainly because my English was too weak and I didn't want to talk something. When it was difficult to deal with the  problems, there were too many people to encourage me to inspire my confidence and talk more with the others. I felt the care and warmth from my friends and determined to practice my English.

 Now, doing some sports with my friends is my favourite, meanwhile, practising my English is still the most important assignment. Talking some difficult problems with other people, watching some interesting English movies can help me how to utilize and comprehend the grammar and the vocabulary. I always listened to the customs, life as well as history of Geelong. I love the sea scenery of Geelong and almost not any contamination. With the warm sunshine and blue sky, that is a great picture!

Geelong is a very wonderful town! The location is very special because it is near many interesting places and when I have time,I can go to play with my friends and family. The simple and honest folkways are the other special traits. On the other hand, it is very near to Melbourne-the cultural centre of Australia. But Geelong has the unique quiet and it makes people very comfortable rather than the noisy of Melbourne. In Geelong, I can't find any trouble in everyday life, only relax and happiness.

I love Geelong! It is my new favourite hometown and I never forget it. Never!

 

YUHAO

North Geelong Secondary College

As far as we know, Australia is a multicultural and multinational country in the world. The Australian education is pretty distinguished and it has too many advantages so that it can attract more and more...

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