2009 was a year when I’ve decided to have a career change. At that time I was doing freelance jobs for an advertising company when my good friend, Ava, stumbled upon an ad on FB inviting people to study in Australia. The seminar was conducted by ISTAC and it was certainly motivational and encouraging. The ISTAC representatives were very accommodating in answering all our questions. After sleepless nights of careful thinking, I’ve finally made up my mind to study in Australia. With the help from ISTAC, I was on my way down under by February 2010.

I took up Viticulture for wine making in Tafe Kurri Kurri Campus. It was once in a lifetime change to be able to actually learn how to grow grapes and gain knowledge on the art of wine-making first-hand. Additionally, I met the most amazing group of people who had the same interest as I did. With a student visa, I was allowed to work part time in some of the cellar door and vineyards. It was definitely a year of firsts for me.

With a little bit of luck, patience, money (I must admit) and help from ISTAC, starting a new life became a breeze. It has been two years since my adventure and although I am now back in the Philippines for personal reasons, the experience, friendships, knowledge I have gained in my whole stay in Australia is one of the best moments I will always treasure.