I never thought I would spend four years studying in Kangaroo country, Australia.
How do I know about studying overseas?
At that time, I accidentally joined an Internship program opened by Makassar State University in 2014. I got information about the program from a friend in an English learning community. Without further consideration, I feel confident that this opportunity is the fastest way for me to be able to go studying abroad through this program.
Around September 2014, I finally flew to Australia after enrolling at one of the oldest colleges in Sydney, Australia, SBTA (The Sydney Business and Travel Academy), majoring in Advanced Diploma of Hospitality Management. I took this major because I am interested in hospitality; it is my passion.
Why do I choose the hospitality course?
Taking advanced hospitality management helped me to enhance my skill in hotel management. Because I want to be a supervisor in future, the course was qualified for my career. This course qualification is for individuals planning to operate at a senior level who wish to use substantial industry knowledge and wide-ranging, specialized managerial skills. The student must work independently, take responsibility for others, and make strategic business decisions.
How about working in Australia as a student?
I got a job less than a week after arriving in Australia. At that time, I got a job recommendation from a friend who studied while working in Australia. So for you who plan to study while working in Australia, you need to contact and approach your friends in Australia. Finding a job will be easier if you get a recommendation from your friend who works at the hotel or the company.
My first job was as a room attendant at a hotel in Sydney Central. As a room attendant, I worked as part of the housekeeping service team at a hotel. My duties involve cleaning and sanitizing rooms, hallways, stairways, and guest areas. I cleaned furniture, washed windows, vacuumed carpet, sanitized bathrooms, changed bed linens, and replaced towels. It was pretty tiring, but I was delighted because I could pay for my studies and cover my living expenses while in Australia by working as a room attendant. I can even send money to my parents in Indonesia.
Any accomplishments so far, Mr Hasrul?
Most of my dreams came true. After graduating from college, I was elected to be a supervisor at my hotel. I was at a reasonable level at work and study; I could manage my study and work time well.
I got a promotion to become a supervisor of housekeeping at a four-star hotel in Sydney. I supervised more than ten staff at the time. As a housekeeping supervisor, I was responsible for ensuring that the standards of cleanliness were met. I assigned tasks, inspected work to ensure it was up to par, and provided training on best handling customer requests. I am very proud of what I have learned and accomplished.
Why do you return home to Makassar?
I returned home in 2018. I went for good because my study finished, and I wanted to live close to my family. I must admit that by working part-time in Australia and with all the hard work maintaining a work-study life balance, I could eventually save money and purchase a private house, a comfortable vehicle and several assets. Furthermore, I am lecturing at one of the colleges in my city and have been advancing my career as a lecturer since then.
Will you recommend everyone to study in Australia?
I will highly recommend everyone to study in Australia. I hope my story can be helpful to whoever wants to study and work in Australia.
If you are not sure about studying and working in Australia? Don’t worry. IStudentPlus can also help you with all you need to research and find employment in Australia. So what are you waiting for, contact us
