William's Interview

Interview

Where did you live during your studies?

I actually live in Southbank which is right where the campus is. I don’t live in student apartments or anything like that, but there is a lot of places like that. When I was studying I lived with 2 other international students, but now I live in an apartment with my partner.

How many days do you go to class per week?

It is either 3 or 4 days per week. There is a lot covered in the course, so we had to go to class a lot.

Did you work whilst you were studying

Yes, when I first started studying I worked a casual job. But after about a year of studying, I found a job in the industry. I had to do some unpaid work experience, but then actually got paid work with the same company that I did my vocational placement with. I actually still work there doing the role of civil engineering drafting.

Did you do a vocational placement?

Yes, I did, and this was really important to me. As part of the course you must do 240 hours of vocational work. This really solidified what I learnt in class. I also still work for this company now that I am on the temporary graduate work visa.

How were your teachers?

The teachers are first class. They all have a lot of experience working in the field. So they have so much knowledge that you can draw from.

Tell us about your classmates?

My classmates are great. We help each other get through it. They are from all over the world – China, Germany, UK, Colombia etc…

What is the most difficult part about the course?

The course is very full-on. Having to attend class 3 – 4 days per week is tough.

How are the facilities?

Really impressive. We attend the same campus as the domestic students so the facilities and technology was all great.

Tell me about the graduate visa process.

Pathway to Aus handled this process for us. But when I finished the course, they applied for a skill assessment and then we applied for the graduate work visa. It took about 3 – 4 months to process, but when it was processing I was granted a bridging visa that allowed me to remain in Aus and work and live.

What are your future plans?

I am building up my work experience and will then I would love to apply for a permanent visa to Australia. I have been chatting with PTA about my options for this. I also do want to go back home sometime as well to see the family in the future.