Finding work while balancing your studies is a rite of passage for many students. Doing so in a new country brings exciting opportunities to meet new people, gain valuable experiences, and grow in unexpected ways.
Working in Australia while studying is an eye-opening experience. Getting a job here was a personal goal of mine. I was determined to see every side of Australia. It was one of the best decisions I made, and below you can read how you can do the same.
Where to start: Job sites and building a profile
Unsure where to look? Many platforms exist to aid your job search. SEEK is a good place to start. The online job platform offers a variety of opportunities. LinkedIn is a great place to find useful tips, too. Use the site to practice interview styles and research your new employer and co-workers. YouTube also offers verified practical channels to help you look for and integrate into a new role. You will find former students who have gone through your experience. This helped me immensely as it was relatable and insightful.
Creating a CV that stands out
Building the right profile for the role will help you stand out to employers. For example, if you are aiming for bar work, write down any relevant experience you have on your profile.
Australian employers are usually laid back, friendly, and polite. They are often eager to help and support. This casual attitude may differ from employers in your home country, but they still want relevant experience. They want to know what skills you have that will improve their company. What knowledge do you have, either from work or your studies, that is relevant to the job you’re applying for? Know your audience and present a tidy, well-written résumé. Your CV is your first impression.
Balancing work and study: My experience
Undertaking a part-time driving role in Melbourne was one of my greatest experiences. This was a role I found through SEEK. It improved my knowledge of the city and rural Victoria. I met Australians who had never been abroad before and found them eager to learn about me and what I was up to. The new knowledge I acquired proved invaluable. It improved my confidence and gave me organisational skills that I channelled into my writing. My new co-workers became good friends, and they highlighted local hotspots that I may have missed otherwise. These included new beaches and beautiful walking trails.
How do you balance all of this? Remember, the main reason you are here is to engage in your studies. It’s okay to outline to employers your schedule and other commitments. Many employers will admire and respect your honesty, organisation and willingness to balance work and study. A mistake I made was trying to do too much and not being able to say no to employers. Be honest with your lecturers about your schedule. They will admire your work ethic and will likely offer a helping hand and support. What worked for me, simple as it sounds, was transparency with everyone in the different parts of my Australian experience.
Know your visa: Rights, limits, and employer expectations
It’s vital to know your rights on a student visa, what hours you can work, and how this dovetails with your studies. Make sure you’re aware of this before embarking on a job hunt! Some employers may be put off by dealing with international visa holders, simply because it is more paperwork for them. This is something I’ve encountered many times, and it certainly is not a reflection of your competence to do the role. There’s plenty more out there. Keep applying!
Final thoughts
Finding work in Australia while studying can be challenging, but it’s also an incredible opportunity to grow both professionally and personally. From navigating the job market to balancing your studies, the experience can teach you invaluable skills and help you truly understand what life in Australia is all about! So, dive in, stay proactive, and remember that every setback is just another step towards success.
