Where are you studying?
I am studying CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at South Regional TAFE's Bunbury campus. When I applied for this course I found the information about the bursary on the TIWA website. I was working as a babysitter in New Zealand when I first applied and was hoping to advance my career with further study. When I was considering to study in either New Zealand or Australia, the bursary appealed to me so I decided to go to Australia as an international student.
How long have you been studying the course and what have you enjoyed so far?
I have been studying for approximately six months. Actually, I have found it harder than I initially expected. There are a lot of cultural differences between Japan and Australia so I find that I need to reconsider my perspective that is built from my own experience. However, I am very glad to see children smile when I am helping them and their expression when they achieve success. Also, I am gaining more confidence as an educator when children rely on me and ask me for cuddles to feel comfort. I would like to use this qualification to provide a good quality of education to children in Australia and at the same time give them opportunities to experience Japanese culture.
How have you found the facilities on your campus?
My lecturer, Denise is a great teacher and gives support for students to gain and expand knowledge and experience. She organised the creche session every Wednesday morning so we can demonstrate the knowledge which we learn in the classroom. Her lessons are very clear and easy to understand, and she is willing to explain things again for me until I get it.
Regarding the facilities on the campus, there are lots of parking spaces. Most people come to school by cars and I have never had to look for a park space in the morning, which is great. Furthermore, Natasha Sprigg, who looks after international students studying at Bunbury campus is very supportive. In this small town, it is hard to get information in Japanese or from Japanese people but she always gives information of activities and helps me out when I am struggling in daily life.
How does life in Australia compare to home?
I came to Australia in January 2024, so I have been here for seven months. My daily life is quite chilled compared to life in Japan. I am still looking for fun activities, but I like to spend time to chat with friends in school or on the weekend. When my friend visited from Japan, she loved the beach in Bunbury. She seemed so relaxed and there is a lot of cafes close to the beach, so we grabbed coffee and listened to music there. There are some big festivals in Bunbury too. I joined an International Festival in February. I carried a Japanese flag and walked around the estuary with lots of other countries’ flags. That was very exciting, and I was impressed how much people in the town have interests in other countries. This could be a reason why the people in Bunbury are so nice and helpful.
Have you found a part-time job?
I am working as a barista at Bunbury Farmers market. It is very crowded on weekends but I have a sense of accomplishment after every shift and people there are nice and fun to talk to. One customer always praises the coffees I make and tries to remember my name. I sometimes feel tired to make more than 100 coffees a day but customers like him give me motivation to work as a barista.
Would you recommend the regional bursary to other students and why?
I would highly recommend the regional bursary to other students because this bursary helps me a lot. If you receive a bursary, not only does it support international students financially but also mentally - to enjoy country life.
I absolutely recommend students apply for this program if they are keen to live in the countryside. We do not have much city life in Bunbury however we can concentrate on study and get lots of opportunities to explore the beautiful nature of the great country.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
I came to Australia instead of my country to get a high-level qualification. However, at this moment, I am enjoying being able to interact with people from different nationalities in the classroom, as well as studying. As an international student, I miss my home country, family and friends, but I would like to let prospective students know that there are many nice people here and you can make the best memories that will never be forgotten!