Sarka Slavickova – an inspiration to international students

Sarka Slavickova studying Diploma of Hospitality in the MEGT Institute’s sydney campus has been nominated for the NSW Premiere International Student of the Year Awards 2011.
Here is a short interview with Sarka regarding her study and her personal thoughts about life as an International Student.

1. Why did you choose to study at MEGT?
It was very hard for me to choose a school from overseas. It involved making the tough decision of leaving my family, friends and everything I knew behind to come overseas in order to pursue my dream. I was aiming to choose the best school available where I would be able to feel like home.
I received great recommendations from my agent and formal MEGT Institute students. When I arrived at MEGT Institute, I knew I had made a good decision.

2. What do you enjoy most about your course?
What I enjoy most of my course is the fact that I am studying with people from all over the world. You truly become aware of the cultural differences and upbringing among various nationalities and it is an incredible experience. The course also contains current practical and theoretical contends.

3. Why did you become involved in the MEGT Institute Student Council?
I wanted to do more than study, I wanted to help and contribute to the community.
Being a member of the Student Council is rewarding as I have the opportunity to be the voice of my fellow colleagues. Since becoming a member, I have organised and promoted several charity and social events.
Life as an international student can be quite bewildering sometimes. I joined the Student Council because it gave me the chance to at the very least, contribute to take the student’s mind off worries by organising fun and social events. I know how stressful it can be to find a new place to live, a new job, and on top of that still perform well academically.

4. What is your inspiration when promoting community based events?
As an international student I know how hard is to be accepted and to feel as part of the community.
The community based events help me and other international students to become a part of the community, to feel as we belong! Getting everyone together for events is the most important action because there is nothing better than to feel welcome in a new and different country, especially as exotic as Australia! Knowing that you have friends to rely on, show you around and be there in times of need is all you need to feel right at home in a overseas country. I wanted to share that feeling with all international students. I am also very enthusiastic about the blood donation program. As a regular donor I know how important it is to help.

5. Tell us about the NSW Premier International Student of the Year, how do you feel about your nomination?
Surprised and very much honored. I love what I do, and to be recognised for my actions is quite exciting! This nomination also brings more attention to the work being done by students actively involved in the community around NSW, which will hopefully inspire others to get active as well. Being one of the nominees for this prestigious award felt good and I was incredibly supported by the college especially by the Student Services Officer – Luci Vicente, who encouraged me to apply for this great award.

6. As an international student and nominee for the NSW International Student of the Year 2011 (VET), how do you balance/manage the academic requirements of your course and your active involvement with the community?
What I learn in my day to day class is relevant to the community work that I support and believe in. After completing my face to face study commitments, I dedicate an hour a day to study the textbook and then apply the knowledge that I have gained in the Student Council events. The hospitality industry is all about fulfilling people’s wishes and dreams. I see my fellow students as if they are my customers, and when organising events I seek to provide them the best service possible.
Plus I am also active blood donor – last donation was last week – my excitement often inspires others.

7. What is your advice for international students who, like you, would like to become involved with the community?
Think of something you love to do and find a way to put it to good use. For example, if you play an instrument, why not organize some live music/jam sessions with other students for the students? Community work never has to be a unpleasant task if you do what you enjoy and believe in!

8. Any final thoughts or suggestions?
I could not be where I am now without support of my family and college. MEGT Institute Student Services Officer, Luci Vicente helped me a lot at my early stages as a member of the Student Council. I would like to say a big thank you to her and all MEGT staff members, trainers and students who supported me in this fantastic journey!

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