What is it like to be an international student at ITC?
ITC Graduate Boris Valin studied the 2 Year International Diploma and is now working in New Caledonia for a travel wholesaler.
Every year the International Travel College of New Zealand (ITC) welcomes many international students to Auckland. They come from all over the world; some from as near as Australia, others from as far flung as Russia or Kazakhstan. So what is it like to study at ITC as an international student? What are some challenges and highlights?
ITC Graduate Boris Valin moved to Auckland from New Caledonia to study ITC’s 2 Year International Diploma Course. He graduated in 2013 and has since moved back to New Caledonia, where he works as a Sales Coordinator for a Wholesale Travel Company, Eden Tours.
Boris recently popped back into ITC during a four-day holiday to Auckland. We caught up with him to find out what life is like beyond study, and he shared some excellent tips for other international students considering moving to New Zealand to pursue a career in travel and tourism.
Go flatting
When Boris first moved to Auckland, he lived on his own. This is a great place to start – it allows you to get set up, settle into life at ITC and focus on your studies. But after awhile, he decided to look for housemates.
In New Zealand, this is known as “going flatting”. A shared house is called a ‘flat’, and the housemates are referred to as ‘flatmates’. This is one of the best ways to make new friends, as well as practice your English. Boris would definitely recommend this option to international students looking to meet new people.
Explore New Zealand
One of the highlights of Boris’ time at ITC was the chance to explore New Zealand during the holidays. He travelled all around the country, visiting magical places such as Queenstown and Mount Maunganui.
But his favourite city was by far Auckland, a place Boris became to know as home. ITC has two campuses in Auckland – one in the city centre, and another in Botany. Both areas of Auckland are special in their own right; you are never more than a short drive away from the beach!
Make the most of ITC’s industry connections
When you study the 2 Year Diploma at ITC, you get more than just an education; you get the chance to gain some work experience in New Zealand’s thriving tourism industry. International students can apply for a post-study 1 year work visa (with the possibility of extension) when they graduate.
Boris made the most of this opportunity and spent a year working in Auckland, earning money, making great friends and getting some great experience for his CV. His first job was at Rendezvous Hotel, and he then moved onto Novotel before landing a great role at AOT Group.
This industry experience helped Boris get the job he is in now, back in New Caledonia. He is thankful to ITC for giving his travel career such an amazing start.
“Studying at ITC was one of the best decisions I have made in my life,” Boris said.
“ITC has a great atmosphere and the people and school facilities are great. I have now landed my dream job. Thanks ITC!”
Posted in Student success | Tagged International Students, ITC graduates, New Caledonia, travel jobs | Leave a reply