Graduating Students Share Tips to New Cohort

William Angliss Institute’s 2021 Orientation offered new students a range of online sessions, panels and events to welcome them to the Institute. Included in the Orientation program was a Student Experience Panel, attended by four students of William Angliss Institute, who graduate in March. They spoke about their experiences at Angliss and took time to answer questions from eager attendees.

Bachelor of Ecotourism student Melissa Adamson, explained to the group how the panel would be sharing “tips and tricks from [their] own journeys to get students ready for their course.” Joining her on the panel was Shelantha Fernando, a Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery student, Diploma of Event Management student, Samantha Holden and Bachelor of Tourism and Hospitality Management student Xiu Chorng Yeoh.

The discussion emphasised the caring and exciting nature of William Angliss Institute, with all panellists sharing their involvement in clubs and societies and how they have learnt skills they will use in future jobs and everyday life.

The panel began by discussing what they love most about studying at Angliss. The teachers and staff being very welcoming and supportive was well received. Samantha explained how her teachers went above and beyond to support her, especially during lockdown. Chorng agreed that there was great help from staff that was easily accessible to all students.

Being involved in extracurricular events and clubs at Angliss was also really important. Shelantha explained that, especially as an international student, it’s a fantastic way to meet new friends and become immersed in the culture of the Institute and Australia. Chorng explained that attending events and joining clubs not only leads to making friends, but it also allows students to meet people in the industry and get their names out there. He continued by saying that “William Angliss students are recognised in the industry as being well trained, owing to the Institute’s high credibility.”

Chorng said, “It’s a small world and explained that you may say hi to someone and then years later find yourself working with them in the industry, so it’s important to make connections.”

When asked what advice they would give to new students, Samantha emphasised the importance of asking questions. She said to utilise every opportunity with an industry professional to help you find what job you will want to pursue after your studies. Chorng said, “You need to take ownership of what you do, be organised and manage your time well.”

Another new student asked for advice for getting through a large block of classes. Shelantha suggested that being prepared for your lessons and planning ahead can help you complete classwork more efficiently, generating a more relaxed lesson. Chorng talked about studying remotely and suggested trying to join online classes in locations other than your bedroom and to definitely not complete your classes in bed, as it will negatively affect your concentration!

The panel discussed the best ways to manage assignments and homework, with all four agreeing that you should try to complete assessments as soon as possible. From a higher education perspective, Melissa explained that the level of homework you have each week will vary, so you should plan ahead and manage your time well so you don’t end up having to work on multiple major assignments at once. As a vocational student, Samantha discussed how it’s important to thoroughly read the assessment outlines before starting them, so you are definitely completing all basics of the assignment and not missing important aspects. 

Lastly, the panel was asked what their plans are for after graduation. Samantha said, “I am taking baby steps, planning to use the tools I have learnt from my studies and mentors and gain experience in the industry.”

Shelantha plans to start work in a hotel franchise so he can have a job he is passionate about, while also being able to travel and work in different countries.

Chorng aims to make a brand for himself by getting his name out there in the industry while Melissa doesn’t want to be too specific, she aims to apply for various positions in tourism and see what she comes across.