"Melbourne definitely has the most opportunities in Australia, cultural inclusivity and a good population size."
Olive's love of mathematics was sparked during her high school education, making it her strongest and favourite subject. After completing a Bachelor of Economics in China, she found herself uncertain of her career path. Olive decided to study a Masters of Secondary Teaching at Deakin University in Melbourne in 2017. Melbourne, with its breathtaking scenery and a reputation for multiculturalism and inclusivity, had captured her interest. Choosing to move to Melbourne proved to be a wise decision for Olive as she discovered the cost of living was more affordable compared to other major cities around the world.
Olive's initial plan was to gain overseas experience and, if she fell in love with Melbourne, try and make it her permanent home. After receiving Victorian visa nomination, Olive is now a permanent resident and is thriving as a mathematics teacher at one of Melbourne's top schools. She has found immense joy in engaging with young minds, witnessing their growth, and improving their test results. Olive now believes teaching is a rewarding career that many migrants should consider. Stepping into the classroom in Melbourne for the first time, Olive encountered a welcoming environment. Olive says students in Melbourne are confident and engage their teachers in conversations about their school days and hobbies. It is a dynamic that she finds invigorating, as it allows her to connect with her students on a deeper level, which she finds improves their learning outcomes.
Beyond her professional achievements, Olive attends contemporary dance classes and participates in rock climbing. Speaking of cultural differences, Olive was taken aback by the big role that sport plays in Melbourne life with most people having a team they are passionate about supporting. Rather than pretending to enjoy sport, Olive is honest about her lack of interest in Australian sport to the amusement of her students. Olive likes the fact that she can remain authentic to herself and would like to reassure migrants that one can belong in Melbourne without sacrificing their individuality.
Looking ahead, Olive wishes to continue enjoying her life in Melbourne while continuously improving her teaching skills and pursuing her hobbies. She is confident if her parents choose to join her in Melbourne, that they will be able to integrate into Melbourne's diverse community. Olive believes “Melbourne definitely has the most opportunities in Australia, cultural inclusivity and a good population size.”
To receive notifications and updates from the Victorian Skilled and Business Migration Program, subscribe to our newsletter via our Live in Melbourne website.