My name is Nur Arisha Umaira and I’m an international student from Johor Bahru, Malaysia. I moved to Perth when I was just 18 years old, right after finishing high school. Coming to a new country all by myself was a huge step in my life but I knew it was the right one. I wanted to challenge myself, pursue a better education and grow personally and professionally.
Before arriving, I didn’t know anything about Australia. Everything was new, the environment, the people, the culture, but Perth quickly made me feel at ease. The city’s calm atmosphere and reputation for safety gave me and my family peace of mind.
As a Muslim student, I was also relieved and happy to find that halal food was widely available, and people were incredibly respectful and inclusive. It helped me feel comfortable, welcome and supported in my daily life. Leaving home is never easy, but finding a place that feels like home makes all the difference.
What course did you study, and at which TAFE campus?
When I enrolled at the Perth campus located in Northbridge, I started with the CT30120 Certificate III in Information Technology Web Development then progressed to ICT40120 Certificate IV in Information Technology [Web Development] and finally completed the ICT50220 Diploma of Information Technology [Front End Web Development]. Choosing this pathway allowed me to gradually build my skills from the fundamentals to more advanced topics and each level gave me more confidence and practical knowledge.
What really stood out to me about studying IT at TAFE was the hands-on learning approach. We didn’t just sit in classrooms listening to theory, we were constantly applying what we learned through real-world projects, teamwork and industry-based tasks. This made every subject feel relevant and engaging. The structure of the course helped me prepare for actual work environments and made me feel more job-ready than I ever expected.
The teachers at TAFE were another highlight. They were experienced, approachable and always willing to offer help or advice. They took time to explain complex concepts clearly and used real-life examples that helped me understand how technology is used in the professional world. Their support made a big impact on my learning journey, and I always felt encouraged to push myself further.
How did you find the facilities on your campus?
Studying at Perth campus was a fantastic experience. The facilities were modern, clean, and designed to help us learn effectively. The computer labs were well-equipped with up-to-date software and tools, which allowed us to practice using the same systems and platforms we’ll encounter in the industry. There were also quiet study spaces and open areas where we could collaborate with classmates or just relax between classes.
What I appreciated most about my lecturers was their teaching style. They combined structured learning with real-world applications, and their classes were always interactive. They took the time to know us individually and truly cared about our progress. I never felt like just another student, I felt seen, supported and motivated. At TAFE, you don’t just study but you prepare for the world outside the classroom.
Looking ahead, what’s next for you?
Now that I’ve completed all three qualifications, I’m excited to take the next step in my education journey. I will be pursuing a Bachelor of Information Technology, and I feel fully prepared thanks to the strong foundation I’ve built at TAFE. I’ve discovered a real passion for the tech industry and am especially interested in exploring areas like web development.
My long-term goal is to work in a dynamic IT environment, gain global experience, and eventually specialise in a field where I can make a real impact. TAFE didn’t just give me the knowledge, but it gave me clarity, direction and the confidence to keep moving forward with purpose.
How long have you been living in Perth?
Living in Perth has been an incredible experience over the past three years. The city has the perfect balance of peaceful living and vibrant multicultural energy. Whether it’s enjoying the sunny beaches, exploring local markets or just walking through the city, there’s always something new to discover.
One of the things I value most about Perth is its inclusiveness. As an international and Muslim student, I’ve always felt safe, accepted and respected. It’s a city where people are kind, open-minded and genuinely curious about different cultures. That made settling in and adapting so much easier. Perth isn’t just a study destination, it’s a place where you can grow, connect, and feel at home.