Stephanie Rong wanted a change of career and lifestyle and saw the English Language Bridging Program (ELBP, formerly ELICOS) as her opportunity to achieve this and more. Stephanie had been learning English since she was little but lacked perspective when it came to academic and social skills. Studying through the English Language Centre helped to develop her abilities.

"ELICOS helped me a lot in my daily life, especially making me more confident to speak English to make friends and develop my professional profile for my career. The Language Centre offered free tutorial classes and activities to help develop our English and fit into local environment and culture,” she says.

Stephanie recalls the support offered during her learning experience within the Language Centre.

“My ELICOS learning experience at the Language Centre was excellent. All the teachers were supportive, and the team were kind and caring for all the students.

“Offering reading, listening, writing, and speaking classes each week, I was taught very practical skills to build up my English abilities to fit into the community and improve my academics,” she says.

Using the confidence ELBP provided, Stephanie continued her study to complete a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Master of Marketing.

“ELICOS helped me study a combined master's program. It was a great pathway to help me adapt the English learning and fit in the multicultural environment. It formed my skills in academic writing, note taking and presenting to achieve high results,” she says.

Since graduating in 2019, Stephanie has worked with the University of Newcastle Global team to support international students as an Administrator.

“I am very keen to help our international students and share my study and living experience in University and Newcastle City with them. I hope my team and I can be helpful to students,” Stephanie said.

Stephanie encourages prospective students to embrace the change studying can bring and make connections to add value to becoming a life-ready graduate.

“Grab your chance and persist in the things you want to achieve. Don't be afraid and try to embrace the uncertainty and challenges, you will thank yourself and life eventually. Study hard and play hard, push yourself out of comfort zone and make your local and international connections, it will add additional value and let you become a life-ready graduate.” Stephanie said.

Learn more about our English Language Pathways

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Stephanie Rong

Stephanie Rong wanted a change of career and lifestyle and saw the English Language Centre as her opportunity to achieve this and more.

My ELICOS helped me a lot in my daily life, especially making me more confident to speak English and make friends and develop my professional profile for my career.