"One of the benefits of studying with TAFE NSW is that the education system is technical and career oriented. My TAFE teachers were always there for me and they are very good at their job. I think that the environment and the way in which you are taught impacts on your studies."

Marie-Florence Bonarien, Mauritius

Meet Our Students

Karol Anne Lansang - Philippines
Diploma of Community Welfare Work

"In TAFE NSW, I have the opportunity to get first hand experience of the industry before I even graduate."

Karol Anne Lansang is enjoying her time at TAFE NSW so much she hopes to be able to teach Australian students someday.

"I'm planning to apply for Permanent Residency and practice what I have learned. I hope to take advantage of the opportunities that the country has to offer for people with a young family like mine," she said.

Karol Anne came to Australia to start a new life for herself and her young family. She knew little about Australian education providers but TAFE NSW was recommended by her family and friends who live in Australia.

"TAFE NSW has good quality education in the sense that it gives a solid foundation in practical learning as well as theoretical learning," she said. Karol Anne is currently studying the Diploma of Community Welfare Work at TAFE NSW – Western Sydney Institute, Nirimba College.

TAFE NSW Diploma-to-Degree programs allow Karol Anne to complete a diploma course and gain credit towards a bachelor degree. Diploma-to-Degree options are available in many subject areas and may help international students qualify for permanent residency in Australia.

The university pathways were attractive to Karol Anne and helped finalise her decision to study at a TAFE NSW Institute. Karol Anne began her course mid-year in the July intake.

"I love TAFE NSW – Western Sydney Institute because of the quality of support that I get from my teachers and school staff. It's very different from where I studied in the Philippines. The approach of universities in my country is a lot more formal and theoretical. In TAFE NSW, I have the opportunity to get first hand experience of the industry before I even graduate," she says.

She has managed to make lots of friends in her courses and feels very comfortable.
"Because our classes are quite small, we were able to form good relationships with each other and the teachers as well. The students are very supportive and encouraging of one another," Karol Anne said.

Karol Anne has also found part-time work during the holidays. "I was lucky to find a job straight away. There was plenty of support from the TAFE NSW college. A job club promotes jobs available and the International Student Coordinator also emails us job information," she said.

After graduation, Karol Anne and her family hope to apply for Permanent Residency and settle in New South Wales.

"Australia offers a lot of opportunities to students like me from the Philippines. I would advise other students not to be afraid to take the leap. Coming to experience a new country will open a lot of doors for their future," she said.

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