International student profile: Delbaere “Dhie” Bangcado
Bright, bubbly and full of life – Delbaere Bangcado chose to study tourism in New Zealand so she could overcome her fear of heights. Her inspiring story is a must-read for anyone looking to pursue a career in travel and tourism.
Delbaere Bangcado is an ITC international student from the Philippines. She loves studying in New Zealand and dreams of one day becoming a flight attendant. We caught up with her to learn about what life is like as an international student at ITC. She shares her story, as well as some words of wisdom for other international students looking to study in Auckland.
What inspired you to move to New Zealand to study at ITC?
New Zealand is the adventure capital of the world, and I have a lot of fear regarding certain ‘adventures’ – specifically anything to do with heights! To achieve my dream (of becoming a flight attendant), I knew I would have to conquer my fear… and where better than New Zealand where I can actually enjoy overcoming it? I researched a lot of New Zealand schools online, however ITC’s marketing strategy was the best I had ever seen. Not to mention, it has an awesome Airport Training Centre. For me, ITC is by far the best option!
What sparked your interest in travel and tourism?
I have always been interested in what other countries look like. I’ve always wondered what it would be like to live and see another place aside from my own. I was also intrigued by the fast pace of the tourism industry, and how people cope with rapid changes in the trends and needs of people travelling. It was always a mystery to me, and getting to experience it for myself was an eye opener. Behind every smile our flight attendants give us, there’s a lot of hard work. May it be from being a food attendant, room attendant, receptionist, etc. Tourism is everywhere! Working for the industry is not just a job, it takes passion for one to last. I have always and still believe the famous quote “find a job that you love and you will never have to work a day in your life.” This is true, loving what you do can no longer be considered work, it’s passion.
What do you love most about living in Auckland?
Auckland is a breath of fresh air for me. Literally and metaphorically! [Lol]. New Zealand being a rather “young and new” country, you get to see diverse cultures, personalities, nationalities, and anything you can think of!
What do you love most about studying at ITC?
ITC caters and “knows” how to deal with students. It does not have the very strict teacher-student relationship I am used to, so the whole environment is great practice on how the outside world is for students! How you are supposed to act with colleagues and with people who are superior than you in a non-paradoxical way. Everybody smiles and respects everybody. It is just a great culture to be accustomed to.
Tell us a bit about your home country. How does it differ from New Zealand?
The Philippines is a third world country, however it is very advanced and doesn’t want to get left behind Western fads, may it be fashion, music, etc. Despite being a third world country, I can say tourism is rapidly growing and is competing with a lot of first and second world countries. Compared to the Philippines, New Zealand is a very laid back and relaxed country. It’s great for people who don’t like the hassle and stress of being in a big city. With a smaller population, the government can actually take care of people more and provide specific benefits such as student allowances and the like.
What advice could you give future international students looking to study in New Zealand?
Just bring your best “smile”! In general people here are very friendly and accommodating, so you should not be shy to ask for help. If English is not your first language, you do not need to worry and be embarrassed about it because people here are so used to it they can easily decipher whatever you are trying to say PLUS you can improve your English dramatically while you are here!
Do you have any favourite places to eat and shop in Auckland?
Hmmmm… that’s a tough one, I am currently staying in the city, so if you are in this area I recommend that you try one of the restaurants by the Viaduct and Wynyard Quarter! The seafood and steaks are awesome! Have a feed at Fortuna Sky City as well when you’re really hungry and I can assure you that you will get your money’s worth! If you have a sweet tooth, you MUST MUST go to the chocolate boutique in Parnell and indulge in everything wonderful! If shopping is your thing, go to Newmarket and there are fresh designs to be found from aspiring new designers. Bring your best walking shoes as it is better to explore by walking around places!
Any final words of wisdom?
Travel as much as you can and as often as you like. The whole world is your playground, so you better play, play, play. Money comes and goes but the magic of getting to experience places, cultures, and environments for the first time, THAT is priceless!
