Study, strength, and starting over

While Yaping had her sights set on a career in healthcare, the mother-of-two first joined TAFE Queensland as a student in the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) at our Townsville (Pimlico) campus.

The free program, which is funded by the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs, equips migrant and refugee students with the English language skills for living, working and studying in Australia.

“When I first came to Australia, I only had basic English,” Yaping said. “Grammar was really hard, and I didn’t have enough vocabulary. In the beginning, I couldn’t understand what people were saying in class. I was so nervous.”

Over time, Yaping began to feel more comfortable. She found support from her teachers and classmates and began to see that she wasn’t alone.

“There were other students in the same position as me. Slowly, I started to understand more, and the teachers helped us learn faster by showing us strategies to remember everything.”

After gaining language support and confidence through the AMEP, and with her children now in school, Yaping felt it was the right time to study – and possibly work – in health care. In 2024, she commenced a Certificate III in Pathology Collection (HLT37215) at TAFE Queensland’s Pimlico campus.

“I chose pathology because I’ve always been interested in healthcare,” she said. “At first, I was still nervous – very nervous, even to tears – but the teachers and students treated me like everyone else. That gave me confidence.”

Yaping credits her teachers, Leanne Bleakley and Carly Grossek, for helping her succeed.

“They looked out for me,” she said. “They helped me understand everything. Both teachers were so patient and kind.”

Through the course, Yaping learned practical skills for working in pathology collection, including how to interact with patients, take samples, and manage health care environments. She also gained something she didn’t expect – pride.

“This course made me feel proud,” she said. “I was part of the first pathology collection group in Townsville, and I finished the course last year.”

Yaping went on to complete her work placement at QML Pathology and was offered a job at the clinic. She says her experience has opened up new possibilities.

“Before, I didn’t think I could work in health care. Now, I know I can. I just need to find the right balance. I’m happy I finished the course and got the job offer – it showed me what I’m capable of.”

Yaping now encourages others, especially fellow AMEP students, to try the course too.

“I told one of my classmates about it and she joined this year. She finished and loved it. It’s a great course, with great teachers, and it helped me so much.”

Reflecting on her journey, Yaping says she’s proud of how far she’s come.

“In the beginning, I didn’t have the confidence to speak. But now, I can do things I never thought I could. I’m proud of myself. I feel like I can do anything if I try.”

For Yaping, TAFE Queensland has been more than a place to study – it’s been a place to grow. 

The Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) is funded by the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs. In Queensland, the AMEP is delivered by TAFE Queensland.