Dixit Arora

Degree: Diploma of Computing + Bachelor of IT

Current position: IT Support Specialist and Sys Administrator

My name is Dixit and I am from India. I did a Diploma of Computing at Deakin College in 2018 and Bachelor of IT at Deakin Uni from 2019-2020. I work at Navitas in Melbourne as an IT Support Specialist and Sys Administrator. I’ve been in the role for 3 years now.

Choosing Deakin College was a straightforward decision for me, as it provided a direct pathway to Deakin University along with a diploma. The college offered the same facilities as the university and maintained a high standard of teaching quality.

My experiences at Deakin College were instrumental in preparing me for my career. The comprehensive curriculum, coupled with exceptional faculty like IT teacher William Taggart, provided a solid foundation in my field. The practical learning opportunities and access to university facilities enriched my education. Overall, the supportive learning environment at Deakin College equipped me with the skills and confidence needed to excel in my career.

During my time at Deakin College and Deakin University, I participated in a volunteer mentor program and completed an internship. The mentor program help me connect with students and staff through the varies activities we ran and helped me build the invaluable skills of being able to communicate with a broad range of people with different backgrounds and experiences.  The internship allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios. These activities significantly enhanced my leadership, communication, and professional skills, contributing to my overall growth.

Australia is known for its multicultural environment. The multicultural environment at Deakin College had a profound impact on my perspective, both academically and personally. Interacting with a diverse student body enriched my understanding of different cultures and viewpoints, fostering a more inclusive mindset. Academically, it broadened my approach to problem-solving and collaboration, as I learned to appreciate and integrate diverse perspectives into my work. Personally, these experiences enhanced my cultural sensitivity and adaptability, which have proven to be really critical skills when I became employed as a IT Support Specialist and Sys Administrator.

Support during my transition periods at Deakin included academic advising and orientation programs for moving from college to university, and career services, internships, and mentorship programs for transitioning to the professional world, all of which equipped me with necessary skills and confidence.

I still have the friends I made at Deakin College, the same group after 6 years! Reflecting on my time at Deakin College, participating in the mentor program and completing internships were standout experiences that greatly influenced my personal and professional development because of the students and staff I met and interacted with. These moments provided invaluable insights, practical skills, and networking opportunities that continue to shape my career path and personal growth today.

My education at Deakin College has set me apart in my career field by equipping me with practical skills and specialized knowledge. Particularly valuable are the strategic planning and organizational behavior skills gained through the Business Management course. These have been instrumental in my professional life, enabling me to approach challenges with a holistic perspective and contribute effectively to organizational goals.

Advice for aspiring students: Engage in internships, mentorship, and extracurriculars, build a strong academic foundation, develop soft skills, network actively, embrace continuous learning, and stay resilient through challenges for a successful career path.