Rebecca's journey from Wollongong to the world has been marked by her commitment to education and a passion for cultural exchange, inspiring students from diverse backgrounds.
From a young age, Rebecca’s parents taught her that education was the ticket to success inspiring her to pursue university study after school. She completed a Bachelor of Secondary Teaching at UOW then started her career teaching in high schools locally in Wollongong and then Queensland.
However, it was during an exciting trip to Japan teaching English conversation classes, that sparked a new passion in her teaching journey.
“It really opens up your mind. When you’re brought up in one culture and then you go into a completely different culture, it sounds cliche, but for me, my own self, my own thoughts about my own culture, other cultures completely changed,” Rebecca says.
Rebecca returned home deciding to pursue a career in working with cross-cultural students. She studied a Masters in Intercultural Communication and began transitioning from high school to university teaching. This new path ultimately led Rebecca back to UOW to teach English Language classes at UOW College, where she truly thrives.
“I feel like I've really found my home in teaching international students at UOW College,” Rebecca says.
UOW College English courses
Rebecca’s personal experiences working abroad have provided her with a clear passion for supporting students through their transition to study in Australia.
“We understand we are the first point of call for students entering into a completely different culture… the support we provide is really that emotional connection with our students, creating strong relationship and then trying to respond to their individual needs,” Rebecca says.
She cites the dedication and commitment of the entire English Language Program team as one of the most rewarding aspects of her job.
“I just can't emphasise enough that it really is the strength of the team that we have who are all passionate about wanting the best for our international students,” Rebecca says.
“It's really rewarding to work with such a collaborative team who put in extra work to ensure the success of our students,” Rebecca says.
Using nature in education
Rebecca uses the natural surroundings of the University of Wollongong campus to provide an exciting Australian experience for her international students. She regularly incorporates nature into her classes.
“I always take the students to the front of building and show them some of the eucalyptus leaves off the trees… I'll crush up the eucalyptus leaves and feel the oil and smell them… It’s the smell of Australia,” Rebecca says.
Rebecca’s work ethic remains strong as she finds her career at UOW College truly rewarding.
“What keeps us going through all the extra work we do is that we feel like we are making a difference. We're changing these students lives,” Rebecca says.