From an AMEP student to a worker with AMEP

Malaykham, DL Office

Malaykham works as part of the admin team in our Distance Learning office in Sydney.  She came to Australia from Laos as a migrant 4 years ago.  Although she had a bachelor degree in Mathematics and Computer Science from her country, she was unable to work in that field in Australia because she felt her English was not good enough so she started attending AMEP Level 2 English classes.

From there Malaykham learnt that as an AMEP student she was also entitled to do a SLPET course (Settlement Language Pathway to Employment Training) so she enrolled in a Business Administration course with a Navitas college.  As part of the course she had to do 2 weeks of work experience with an employer.  It was fate or good luck that brought Malaykham to Distance Learning where she did her work experience.  During this time Malaykham demonstrated ability to get the job done well.  She designed a complex Excel spreadsheet that impressed the manager so she asked her to stay on for paid part-time work.  Three years later Malaykham is still working with DL, now full-time with a whole lot of other skills up her sleeve.

Surrounded by Distance Learning teachers Malaykham's English had to improve!  She says "It's handy to be able to ask teachers to explain things in English and help me check my writing." Despite that Malaykham admits she's got more work to do on her English.

We're pleased to see Malaykham progress in English and work skills.  We not only value her admin skills but enjoy the lovely meals she cooks and brings to share with us in the office from time to time.

• Do you think it is a good idea to change career in Australia?
• What do you plan to do after the AMEP course?
• What do you think employers in Australia value the most in their employees?