Taking the exciting and life-changing step to study abroad is a big thing to do. You may not be sure where to start, how to prepare, or how to move the process forward. If so, the trusted counselling of our partners at IDP can be a huge help. The company have been realising the dreams of students around the world for more than fifty years, with a record that no others can rival. Discover how IDP supported the following five students – and consider how they could do the same for you.
How Anna from Malaysia keeps expanding her experience
Growing up in Kuala Lumpur, Anna dreamed of studying in Australia. Stories from family friends, the suggestions of her parents, and an unforgettable trip to the country as a young teenager were more than enough to convince her that it was a place where she could flourish. As time went on, she knew that she had to get there – she just didn’t yet know how.
By chance, she discovered IDP. After an introductory chat with some of its counsellors, the process of achieving her goal was set into motion. “Everything,” says Anna, “was smooth-sailing from there on out”.
Further discussions with her assigned personal counsellor led Anna to decide on a new career path, completely unrelated to her prior educational experience in graphic design. Given her passion for baking, it felt right for her to make plans to become a chef. Once they were set, IDP were able to let her know where she could fulfil them – and helped her get there.
“[IDP] gave me lots of options for TAFEs (technical and further education institutions), and eventually enrolled me in a TAFE that was easy to get to from the city, and was the best in Melbourne too – William Angliss Institute.”
Anna admits that the move to a new country where she would have to speak a different language was challenging at times. However, knowing many other people from home who had made the same journey was a great source of comfort. Before long, she had graduated and moved on to find work for a range of local companies, while growing a sideline in graphic design and social media management.
However, this woman of many talents is also a firm believer that learning never stops, and is now steadily upskilling for the next steps in her career.
“I've been actively taking online courses for relevant topics that I'm interested in outside of my studies, such as an advanced Squarespace coding course, advanced content creation courses etc. I want to have a flexible job where I can do whatever I want, wherever I want; hopefully, as a casual travel digital nomad creating content.”
Whatever happens next, Anna’s diverse, international experience has put her in a promising position. With all of it comfortably under her belt, she has some simple advice for anyone else thinking of studying abroad.
“Just do it. Whatever it is you're thinking, this is it; the perfect time to try that crazy idea you have. It's so cliche, but the world is really your oyster.”
How Joey from the Philippines is cooking up a career
Studying abroad is all about different cultures coming together, so it makes perfect sense that Joey from the Philippines aims to open a business as a fusion chef in Australia. Of course, the first part of this recipe for success was finding a way to get an education in the country. Happily, IDP had the ingredients.
After unsuccessfully consulting with various education agencies – “I was disheartened because I felt that they were not interested in helping me” – Joey was introduced to Sasha at IDP. Refreshingly, she turned out to be someone who “provided genuine assistance and care in my student visa application”.
For Joey – who came to Australia with their de facto partner – the help IDP gave with visas was particularly important. One of the biggest obstacles they faced on the way to studying in the country was arranging their applications at very short notice. Again, though, experts were at hand. According to Joey:
“It was a bit of a challenge when my de facto partner had to rush in coming to Australia in time to lodge our visa. Following IDP's professional advice, it was the best and least expensive option for us. We're glad that we listened because our visa got granted in less than 24 hours!”
With this hurdle cleared, Joey has been able to thrive, making the most of Australia’s world-class education system while expanding their horizons every single day. This, they hope, will ensure that their culinary aspirations become a reality.
How Rokha from Cambodia took his own path via IDP
Every study abroad journey is different – and Rokha proves it. The Cambodian student knew when he was in high school that he would like to attend university in Sydney, and it was at that point that he got in touch with IDP.
From there, he was introduced to Vicki, who acted as his personal education counsellor. In this role, she helped Rokha with everything from information about universities – including fees, scholarships, reputation and course details – to his visa application and health insurance. In his words, “She was able to provide all the information I needed”.
Thanks to Vicki, Rokha was able to study in the city he had spent so long thinking about. Finally, his dream had been realised – but his plans began to change. Two years after beginning his study abroad search, he came to feel that he was no longer interested in the course on which he was enrolled. While unusual, this is a situation that can sometimes arise, and for Rokha, it was one for which he knew where to turn: to his contacts at IDP.
“Vicki was extremely supportive and even got me a scholarship at the university of my choice! Today, I am in my third year of nursing. I highly recommend IDP (their services are free!) to high school students who are seeking guidance on choosing the right university.”
Regardless of where life takes you, IDP will be ready and willing to help you take control of your next step.
How Kenton from Malaysia made his move towards the movies
Following a gap year after high school, Kenton knew that he wanted to study film production. However, it was not immediately lights, camera, action. With few film courses available in his home country of Malaysia, he knew he had to look further afield. But what if you don’t know where to start?
While Kenton’s mother’s suggestion of studying in Australia seemed suitable – he already had relatives in the country – the process of getting there was completely new to both of them. Fortunately, a friend recommended the services of IDP. According to Kenton:
“We booked an appointment at the nearest IDP branch and went in for our consultation. The counsellor that we talked to was very friendly and helpful. She explained the entire process very clearly and helped us narrow down the right university for me – North Metropolitan TAFE. I am happy to say that everything went smoothly after our initial meeting.”
It was not long before Kenton was enjoying himself in his new home. Although it took a while to fully adjust to the unfamiliar environment, the open-minded student found his feet. After graduating, he intends to apply for a temporary visa, and hopes to gain experience working in content production. Having tasted Australia’s vibrant culture, he is hungry for more.
“It may seem scary and intimidating at first,” Kenton says, “but if you put yourself out there and put enough effort into it, I can assure you that you won't regret it. The people you meet and the things you experience in Australia will stay with you forever."
How Jennifer from China discovered the art of studying abroad
Piecing things together will be an everyday task for Jennifer once she gets her dream job as an art curator, but piecing together her study abroad plans was a very different task. For that, she enlisted IDP, and she is very glad that she did.
Like so many international students, her first encounter with the company came via a friend who had been in touch with it previously. The positive experience they had gave her the confidence that IDP counsellors and services were things you could completely trust.
In addition to the convenience and simplicity of IDP’s placement process – Jennifer says her favourite thing about the company’s services is their efficiency – the newly mobile student was especially pleased with its personal touch. As she explains:
“My counsellor, Cindy, is a passionate, thoughtful and caring person who helps me a lot and always gives me good advice. She knows the application process well and is able to help me with my questions and concerns.”
The certainty that Cindy and IDP provided was a hugely important stepping stone for Jennifer on her path towards studying at the University of Sydney. Currently enrolled on a Bachelor of Art and Bachelor of Advanced Studies course (majoring in art history and media), she is well on the way to the life and career she wants – making her story a study abroad masterpiece.
These student stories were adapted from profiles on the IDP website.
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