Internships, placements and work-based learning programs are a key gateway for La Trobe’s international students to access ongoing employment opportunities across industries in Australia.
Former student Kavindi Sandupama Jayaweera found success in securing a full-time engineering position at Darebin City Council after completing her placement.
While completing her Master of Civil Engineering, Kavindi opted to participate in the six month, 800-hour Work Intergrated Learning (WIL) program offered in her course.
Kavindi says her placement was crucial to learning and adjusting to Australian workplace culture, connecting with industry professionals and furthering her skills as an engineer.
‘As an international student, you don’t have any connections at the beginning,’ Kavindi says.
‘But if you are doing a placement, you get to know people and you build connections, and then you know who to reach.’
Other than through her course, Kavindi applied herself to learn robust employability skills through resources like La Trobe’s Career Ready Advantage Award and the Global Victoria Intellect program.
…if you are doing a placement, you get to know people and you build connections, and then you know who to reach
Kavindi emphasizes the importance of having the right attitude and motivation to continually improve your skills, particularly for international students.
‘Even as I did my placement, I thought of that as work experience rather than as a requirement,’ Kavindi says.
‘I thought: “it’s my responsibility to give 100 per cent to the company”.’
Kavindi found value in getting to know her work colleagues to not only earn industry connections, but to build an external network of experienced and supportive people in industry.
‘They help me a lot to improve myself and even to learn new things and get adjusted to the working (environment),’ Kavindi says.
‘All of them helped me a lot… they ensured that I am going through the correct process.’
To other international students who are seeking work-based learning, Kavindi advises you give it your all.
‘Try to give your best and learn through the journey and improve yourself.’
International students at La Trobe can apply for WIL opportunities to supplement their degree and receive specialised employability support.
Industries can learn more about student placements here.