Elizabeth Silva

Age: 19

Qualification: Diploma in Information Technology (Web Design)

Campus: Wollongong West

What were you doing before you enrolled at TAFE? I had just finished my HSC and wanted to keep studying.

Why did you decide to enrol at TAFE?
After thinking and speaking to several people, TAFE seemed like an attractive option as the courses are more practical, and I would get much more experience in the career field that I wanted to get in to.

What made you decide to train for the career you have chosen?
After finishing high school I wanted to get in to a graphic design course. My plans didn't turn out as expected, so I decided to give web design a go instead (as it is somewhat related to graphic design). After doing this course, it has helped me to pursue my career in graphic design.

Do you think your training at TAFE will be a major factor in securing a (successful) career in your industry, or help you to move on to further study/training? How? TAFE has definitely helped me to move on to further study. The teachers and students were a great help and encouraged me to continue in the pursuit of my career goals. University also recognises my TAFE qualifications, so that will help me as I go through university study.

What is the most important thing that you have learnt from your training at TAFE?
That if you put your mind to something and set goals, you can achieve things you never thought you could!

What do you enjoy most about your training at TAFE? It is very practical! This really helped me to see what it would be like working in the 'real world' and I really enjoyed that factor.

What is your advice to others thinking about their career and future education? If you're thinking about the future, I would highly recommend you begin with TAFE. It is very practical and hands-on. It provides a wide range of job and study opportunities wherever you are headed.