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Monday 28 May 2012

A big decision: How I applied for course transfer at the end of my second year


After finishing my second year at Deakin, and almost finishing a major in accounting for my undergraduate Commerce degree, I wasn't sure about what other majors I could take/ or was interested in for the remaining one year of the course. Also, I didn't have much hope for a course transfer since my first attempt at doing so at the end of Year one had failed. As the requirement for course transfers is average Distinction (70%), I knew my application would be rejected since my average was about 69%.

However, I could not resist applying for a second time. I really wanted to transfer to something that was of more interest to me – Bachelor of Arts (International Studies)/Bachelor of Commerce, where I could major in History and Accounting. As I had studied VCE History in high school and enjoyed it, I knew that studying History will not only give me a broader perspective on things, but I could choose a career of my liking at the end of the course. As a result, I put in my best effort to fill out the personal statement to persuade Deakin to allow me to change my course.

After a long waiting period of two months for the result of my application for course transfer, I was delighted to know that my application was approved. Indeed it was a brave and big decision for me, when I thought about the options of my future career in Hong Kong- my home country. In Hong Kong, Arts, especially History is not a popular subject. Parents don't really look upon it favourably and there is lack of opportunity for Arts students to get into high paying jobs. Luckily, my parents support me in my choice of pursuing History and so I haven't encountered as many difficulties as others.

Now I enjoy my current course and have also discovered some new hobbies, such as creative writing and literature. I believe that it is better to study a subject that I am interested in and build opportunities in that field rather than securing a high paying career that I may not enjoy. Now I hope to be into publishing, museums or maybe even becoming a historian. I know what I want my future to look like. My tip for you: if you are still not sure and just pondering about whether your course is right for you, I suggest you go and meet a course adviser in your faculty or career counsellors in Jobshop. They are really helpful and knowledgeable staff who can help you in planning a great career.

9 comments:

  1. Encouraging and challenging !!

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  2. This is useful and timely for me - I'm thinking of a transfer at the moment. Thanks! Glad you kept trying and got the course you wanted :)

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    1. Thanks Jo. I made my decision to study history in Uni when I chose History as one of my subjects in VCE (Year 11 &12). When I think back to my decision to choose Commerce in my preferences after VCE, I really regret that I only care about what others think about me. As the majority of Asian parents, such as my great uncle, always perceive studying History in Uni is rubbish, I can feel the enormous pressure since I transferred my course and managing weekly readings, assignments and exams for studying History. And now, I have to plan for my future career and counter the negative criticisms from others, when they always say "Studying History in Uni will not help you to get a job" or simply say "You cannot get a job". They sound so mean to me, but I will prove them wrong.

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  3. Sui, I agree that it is great to study subjects that you actually enjoy - it gives a new passion and energy for studying. My first degree was in Creative Arts (never a big money earner!) but I enjoyed it immensely.
    All the best with your studies.

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    1. Thanks Jodi. I found out there is an interesting article in the current issue in Utimes about Arts degree. You can read it in their website: http://www.utimes.com.au/issues/u603/07.pdf

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  6. Just a reminder to International Students: Remember to extend your visa BEFORE it expired, especially when you need extra trimester(s) than your course completion date to finish your course, as you may experience difficulties and delays during the application of "Endorsement for an extension of course duration and eCOE".
    Otherwise you will get into trouble as you will be unlawful to stay in Australia when your visa expired, which means you will be deported back to your home country and receive a 3 year ban from entering Australia after you leave the country.

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