Alumni student Testimonials

Zhiheng ZHAO from China
USFP Graduate 2008
Currently studying B Engineering (Electrical) (Power) at The University of Sydney

“Last year, I finished my Foundation course, and it has supported me to enjoy my university life more!

As everyone knows, university life is quite challenging and enjoyable, especially at a university like the University of Sydney, which enjoys a prestigious reputation around the world.

Taylors College gave me the knowledge and support to adapt to life in a new country. I chose Taylors College for its high articulation rates to Sydney University and splendid learning atmosphere, as well as teaching facilities. To become a power engineer – developing pollution-free energy, constructing sustainable energy systems – is what I wanted to do since I was a child.”

 

Zina and Shaleen Shah from Kenya
TAFY graduates
Zina is a Medical Laboratory Scientist at Auckland Hospital
Shaleen is in her final year at AUT University studying Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science at AUT University

Zina: "I am really enjoying my career as a Med Lab Scientist and want to become an expert in my field. The teachers at Taylors College were all very patient which made learning an enjoyable task for me."

Shaleen: "After finishing my degree, I want to specialise in different majors and possibly complete a PhD in the future. The facilities at the University is impeccable and the variety of services available made me always feel very supported. The staff at Taylors College are very supportive, I am still able to approach them with problems that I have at university and they are more than willing to assist." 

 

Karen Chow
TAFY graduate 2003
Currently working as a Taxation Specialist at PriceWaterhouseCoopers in Auckland

"I studied the Taylors Foundation program (TAFY) at Taylors College in year 2003 for one year before starting university. At The University of Auckland, I studied a Bachelor of Arts (major in Economics) and a Bachelor of Commerce (majors in Finance and Taxation).

I am currently working in Financial Services, within the Taxation division at Pricewaterhousecoopers. I always wanted to become a banker. I am particularly interested in Structured Finance and aim to become an expert in that field in the next five years.

Since, I was one of the youngest students at Taylors. I found it interesting to talk to the older students who had much more experiences in life. While studying at Taylors, I grew as an individual, learning to interact and talk to people from different backgrounds.

My parents made the decision for me to study at Taylors. Parents really know what is best for you.
     
The best thing I brought with me from home is my PJ marathon medal! I am into competitive sports and participate in long distance running when I get a chance. I won this particular medal when I was 17. It is a reminder that with hard work, passion and determination, you can succeed at anything.

My advice to students who are planning to come to New Zealand would be to get outside your comfort zone, make friends, travel and enjoy the good life!"

 

Tiffany Shan
TAFY graduate 2003
Currently working as a Personal Banker at The National Bank of New Zealand

"After finishing TAFY at Taylors College, I joined a Bachelor of Commerce degree at The University of Auckland and now I’m working as a Personal Banker at the National Bank of New Zealand. I would like to become an Investment banker one day.

I enjoyed studying at Taylors College as all of my teachers were great and helpful, especially Lyn Armstrong.

My agent strongly recommended me to study at Taylors College and I found out about Taylors College from the brochure my agent handed over to me.

My hobbies are traveling, shopping and relaxing. The most favourite item that I brought with me from home is my laptop."

 

Bakhrom Majidov

April TAFY 2004
Recently graduated from Auckland University of Technology (AUT)

"My educational journey started at Taylors College in Auckland. In order to get a first class education it was the most appropriate place to start!

In 2004, I enrolled in the Accelerated April Foundation programme (TAFY) which is an excellent pathway to the University. The proficiency of the teachers and the Taylors College staff helped me achieve good results in my studies. With all the skills and knowledge that I have acquired at Taylors College, I was confident and ready to face all the challenges at the university. My academic year at Taylors College was a successful pathway to New Zealand’s fastest growing university – Auckland University of Technology (AUT).

In the year 2005, when I had just started studying at Taylors College, I had no idea what Social Sciences was about. But once I started the University, I started liking it.

The first year wasn’t bad at all. I noticed the Lecturers were nice and friendly, and surprisingly could make jokes with them. At the end of the first year, while choosing the minor subjects and papers, I choose Marketing as my minor subject. Since, Social Sciences and Marketing is well integrated and is the best way to understand today’s competitive world.

In November 2007, after 3 years of study, I successfully completed my final exams and in March 2008, I participated in AUT Autumn graduation! When I was on the stage shaking hands with the Vice Chancellor, I thought to myself “I made it… I am proud of myself, helped by my parents and my teachers and lecturers! I finally finished… at last I can hold this piece of paper and call myself a Bachelor! I am standing here holding my certificate that I worked hard for the last three years! It feels good! It so does!”

But aren’t we here to achieve this goal that we aimed for when we first arrived in this country? To make ourselves, our parents who has put so much into us and our teachers proud!

Completing a bachelor degree is a small part of our life long journey. However, it is an essential part of our successful career. Therefore, I would say “It’s not the end, but just the beginning of our educational journey!”

Thank you to all of my teachers at Taylors College who were there for me all the time and good luck to the current Taylors College students for both their Foundation and University studies!"

Rudo Makuyana

January UWAFP 2007
Currently studying Podiatric medicine at University of Western Australia

"Studying at Taylors College has been one of my best decisions ever. The reason I chose Taylors College was because of the best path for international students into the University of Western Australia. This is true, as 12 months down the line,  I am now studying Podiatry at the University of Western Australia.
 
Taylors College is a place where people of different nationalities meet together to share one common goal, education. Not only is it just education but also the chance to meet new friends, experience a new culture and discover more about your self. I left the college with skills that are important in today’s world.
 
Not only are the students friendly but also are the staff. I will always remember Marc for the wonderful work he does every day in the front reception for the students, Mr Enright in my Maths or Physics class and waving at Mr Smith through the window every time I walk by. "

Shiv Chandran

Year 12, 1995
Currently working as a solicitor in Melbourne

"I thoroughly enjoyed my experience at Taylors College in 1995. After completing my studies at Taylors, I gained entry into a Science/Law double degree at The University of Melbourne.

I am currently practising as a solicitor with Middletons Lawyers in their Corporate and Commercial Group.
 
The staff at Taylors were friendly and approachable. The learning environment, although outwardly more relaxed, was highly focussed and engaging which provided solid preparation for the years at university to follow.

I developed a keen interest in psychology while completing this study at Taylor’s. I attribute my initial interest in this field to the manner in which our teacher was able to challenge the class on a daily basis. Because of this, and the ability of our teacher to keep our interest by keeping us ‘on our toes’, I was awarded a State Premiers prize in this subject and continued my studies in this field through university."

Anthony Radj

Year 12, 1999
Currently a 5th year medical student at Monash University.

“My years at Taylors College are among the most memorable of my life. Undertaking my Year 11 and Year 12 VCE studies here, I completed school in 1999, upon which I gained entry into Medicine at Monash University in 2000.

 

At all times, the school provided me with the best resources so that I could achieve this goal.

There is something special about the staff at Taylors. My teachers were absolutely exceptional, and I owe so much to them for my success today.

Taylors College provides a happy, caring and supportive environment that allows each student to reach the pinnacle of their capabilities. If you have the will, Taylors College has the way!"

Shaleen Shah

TAFY student

“I chose to study in New Zealand because Kenya wasn't able to provide the programme I wanted and because I knew New Zealand to be a safe destination. New Zealand was the first option I considered - and it was great!

My time at Taylors College has given me the opportunity to achieve to my highest potential. It has also helped me clarify my goals, in that I would like to study Medical Lab Science or Forensics at university. Being able to meet with specialist people from the universities really helped me make my decision as well, because I never would have been able to meet with them otherwise.”

Macarius Perera Lee Buccellato

September MUFY 2004

"Twelve months ago I had never heard of Taylors College, let alone the MUFY course. Being an international school, I’ve had the pleasure of meeting many people from all over the world; this in turn has broadened my perspective on things through learning about many different cultures, traditions and beliefs.

The Monash University Foundation Year course is something I would recommend as it provides a well rounded balanced education which opens up doorways to many universities and particularly Monash University which is a member of the Australia’s Group of Eight. Studying in Taylors I have cultivated good study habits and also further enriched my attitudes towards academic achievement which compel me towards attaining higher goals."

Amanda Phiri

Winner of the September MUFY English prize and Geography prize

"I began studying at Taylors College in September 2004. I had just completed my GCSE O’Levels and was looking to further my education in an institute where the learning standards were the highest. Not only did Taylors’ MUFY course appeal to me on that level but there were boundless opportunities associated with it, regarding entrance to top universities, upon completion.

I have thoroughly enjoyed studying here. It was so easy to develop a closeness to the teachers and fellow students.

I would most certainly recommend Taylors College to other students because it helps you realise your goals and leaves you certain that they can actually be achieved! I hope to study a Bachelor of Commerce at Monash University once I have finished the MUFY course."

Yulike Cahyono

Recipient of the Commerce USFP Scholarship
Currently studying a Bachelor of Commerce/Law at the University of Sydney

"My study at USFP has really prepared me for university life. I couldn’t imagine myself settling down so quickly in the University of Sydney without the knowledge and experience that I gained through the Foundation Program.

I had the best teachers who would answer all my questions and guide me patiently throughout the foundation program.

USFP also provided a strong foundation for my university studies and made it much easier for me to adjust to the pace of learning at university.
 
Life at Taylors College was also fun. I had the opportunity to meet students from different countries and some of them have become my best friends now I am at university. The picnics, trips and activities that were organised throughout the year were also fun, enjoyable and memorable.My timeat USFP has been nothing but great and I’m very grateful for it."