TAFE South Australia (TAFE SA)

Serene Tan

Diploma of Nursing (093597G/HLT54115)

Having completed a business degree, Serene had no trouble building a career in the finance and education industries at home in Singapore. However, a budding interest in nursing led to a new chapter of life as an international student in Adelaide.

“If you want to be equipped with skill sets that prepare you well for the industry, TAFE SA is the place to be. Your TAFE SA experience will be what you make out of it, so be curious, inquisitive and eager to learn. Ask questions as the faculty has a wealth of knowledge to share too.”

Kasuni Fernando

Bachelor of Tourism, Hospitality and Events Management (099074G/CRS1400588)

Kasuni, originally studying finance and accounting in Sydney, realised her true passion was actually tourism and hospitality. Having graduated with a Bachelor of Tourism, Hospitality

and Events Management (099074G/CRS1400588) at TAFE SA in July 2020, Kasuni found herself starting a new role on the front desk at the Wilpena Pound Resort in the Flinders Ranges within a few weeks of graduating.

“My lecturers at TAFE SA were so helpful and the experiences they provided like guest speakers and internships were so important. I did an internship at the Stamford Grand which really helped when I was being interviewed for my job.”

Virroshan Kumar Krishna Kumar

Diploma of Software Development

Virroshan has been inspired by his father’s career in information technology (IT) and is pursuing a study path from TAFE SA to university to achieve his IT goals. Also having won a 2019 StudyAdelaide Award for Academic Excellence: Vocational Education and Training, Virroshan is an advocate of experiential, hands-on learning.

“I feel doing a VET course was the best decision I ever made. The lecturers are extremely helpful, and you get a lot of one-on-one time in the classroom. There’s more hands-on experience, and the assessments are based on what’s happening in the real world. Also, my program is part of a university pathway, which guarantees entry into second year when I complete the Diploma. VET is a great choice and a win-win way to university.”

Natalia Varini

Certificate III Patisserie (109755G/SIT31021), Certificate IV Patisserie (109486A/SIT40721) , and Diploma of Hospitality Management (114652E/SIT50422)

Natalia, originally from Uruguay, found her passion for baking at a young age in her grandmother's kitchen. After completing a Bachelor’s degree in Management and Business Administration and working as an Accounting Analyst, she decided to pursue her true passion. In July 2023, she commenced her studies at TAFE SA, undertaking a Certificate III and IV in Patisserie and a Diploma in Hospitality Management. Her hands-on experience at TAFE SA and a job at a local bakery have provided her with the skills and confidence to dream of opening her own bakery café in Adelaide.

"The facilities at TAFE SA are outstanding, and the support from lecturers is incredible. They ensure that we international students understand every step of the learning process. I’m confident that the education I’m receiving will help me reach my career goals."

Adriele das Merces Oliveira

Associate Degree in Civil and Structural Engineering (Design Drafting) (092138J/CRS1400353)

Adriele, originally from Brazil, decided to pursue her passion for civil design drafting in Australia. After completing high school and helping in her mother's business, she sought a top-quality education abroad. Since starting her Associate Degree in Civil and Structural Engineering (Design Drafting) at TAFE SA in July 2023, Adriele has been captivated by the prospect of shaping communities through infrastructure development. The hands-on experience and industry-relevant training at TAFE SA have equipped her with the skills and knowledge to excel in her field.

"I value the dynamic learning environment at TAFE SA, where practical experience and supportive teachers help me apply theoretical concepts to real-world challenges. This course is preparing me to make a positive impact in the world of civil engineering."

Tanatswa Titus Mapholisa-Moyo

Certificate IV in Information Technology (Programming)(108425M/ICT40120), Diploma of Information Technology (Advanced Programming)(110568M/ICT50220)

Tanatswa, from Zimbabwe, came to Adelaide to advance his studies in Information Technology. Before moving to Australia, he worked as a farm supervisor while pursuing IT certifications in cybersecurity and programming. With a passion for problem-solving and a knack for coding, Tanatswa is on a journey to combine his programming skills with cybersecurity knowledge. Starting his Diploma of Information Technology (Programming) at TAFE SA in February 2024, he is determined to build a career in cybersecurity by creating programs that defend against cyberattacks.

"I chose TAFE SA for its affordability, emphasis on practical skills, and a strong learning environment led by experienced professionals. The hands-on experience here is giving me the skills to be job-ready and paving the way for further studies in cybersecurity."

His advice to prospective international students? "TAFE SA is a great choice for those looking for a cost-effective and practical approach to learning. Make sure to connect with current or past students to gain valuable insights!"