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Thinking of moving to Australia to pursue tertiary education? Like many other international students, you might be drawn to Perth’s laid-back atmosphere and amazing educational opportunities.
To find out what studying in Perth is really like, we spoke to 21-year-old Athena Chu, who is in her final year of study for her CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at TAFE International Western Australia (TIWA).
Read on to discover what Athena had to say about her educational journey and career aspirations, plus her advice for other international students.
Uncertainty after high school
Like many students, Athena wasn’t immediately sure of her career pathway.
“I felt lost after high school,” she says.
Because of this, Athena studied a one-year foundational course in Malaysia, covering a range of different subjects, with the goal of finding her passion.
It was partway through this that Athena realised that she wanted to work with children, and after some workplace experience in the industry, she knew it was time to develop and improve her skills. This led her to TIWA.
Choosing Perth
There were quite a few reasons that Athena settled on Perth as her international study destination. Along with how calm the city was – perfect for a study destination – Athena had a personal connection.
“I have family here, so that sorted out accommodation,” she laughs.
Athena has always loved exploring the city and especially enjoys finding the restaurants and art galleries hidden away in enchanting alleyways.
The most special moments, according to Athena, are when she gets to sit by the sea in the evening after a day on campus, watching the ocean and feeling the wind on her face.
“I am able to walk to the beach from my home,” she adds, “which makes it easy to enjoy.”
An unbeatable learning experience
Athena says studying for her certificate has opened her eyes to the world of early childhood education and believes her expectations for the course have been exceeded.
Importantly, she learned the difference in childcare approaches between Malaysia, where she engaged in work experience, and Australia, which has helped her build a global mindset.
“In Malaysia, there’s a stronger focus on curriculum, but in Australia, there’s an emphasis on learning through play,” she shares.
In addition to learning theory in her classes, Athena valued the placement she had at a childcare centre. In particular, she enjoyed getting the opportunity to participate in hands-on learning and the ability to ask questions in a practical environment.
To her delight, Athena was even offered a casual position at the centre after her placement concluded. This allowed her to gain even more professional experience throughout her studies, with extra funds to explore more of Perth.
Asking for help
Learning anything new is tough, and feelings of loneliness can make things even harder, especially when you’re studying a world away from home. This is why Athena recommends other international students ask for help if they’re having any difficulties with their coursework.
“The lecturers at TIWA are very helpful,” she says. “I contact them a lot with many questions.”
TIWA also has a wide range of services for students to help them balance learning and wellbeing. According to Athena, the library has a wealth of study resources available, and there are support services available to international students if they need a helping hand.
Future pathways
TIWA has been a crucial step in Athena’s educational journey, but it is by no means the final one.
While studying early childhood education has solidified her vision of a career in childcare, she is embracing flexibility and keeping her options open for the future.
“When I graduate at the end of this year, I will start working in childcare to be sure that this is what I want to do,” she shares.
But Athena also has further study on her mind and is already dreaming of learning more about child psychology.
“My dream would be to study child development, such as watching a baby grow to a six year old, as that makes my heart warm,” Athena says.
Ready to find out where TIWA can take you? Explore your opportunities today.