Dare to say yes: Alyanna’s story
Growing up in Manila, Philippines, Alyanna always dreamed of studying overseas. Having relatives in Tasmania gave her family the confidence to send her here. Looking back, Alyanna says the decision came surprisingly easily, despite the little knowledge about the place at the time.
“I didn’t really know where Tasmania was or what it looked like. I just knew it felt like an opportunity worth taking. That one decision completely changed my life”, Alyanna says.
Learning in Tasmania
Arrived in 2022, Alyanna pursued a Bachelor of Business at the University of Tasmania (UTAS), majoring in Marketing and Accounting.
The flexible degree structure helped Alyanna to add Accounting as a second major, opening up great career pathways in Australia. Alyanna realised that being practical didn’t mean giving up on her passions. It simply gave her more doors to open.
Reflecting on her time at UTAS, Alyanna enjoyed learning beyond the classroom and supportive lecturers. One of her fond memories was a field trip to a Tasmanian Oyster Company with her classmates to learn about oysters and how to tell a business’s story.
For Alyanna, the university became more than just earning a degree. It gave her the space and opportunities to explore who she wanted to become.
Life beyond university
Outside of her studies, Alyanna adopted a simple motto: Say yes to new opportunities.
From work placement and volunteering to working across retail and events, Alyanna was passionate in contributing to her community and challenging herself professionally.
She learned that employers value many things else other than just a degree, including “communication, curiosity, adaptability and a willingness to learn”. “Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there”, Alyanna shares.
Alyanna saw every experience as a lesson. Each one shaped her journey in Tasmania, enriching her life both personally and professionally.
From lifelong friendships to her first job at KPMG, each experience opened the door for Alyanna to see a clearer picture of the person she wanted to become.
A life that is uniquely hers
True to her motto, Alyanna lives a vibrant life that’s a great mix of her passion and profession.
Today, Alyanna works as a Senior Advisor in Business Tax Advisory at KPMG while also taking on a role of a Dance Cardio instructor at Eternal Performing Arts and soon becoming a Rhythm Ride instructor at Happi Studio.
What started as a love for boutique fitness quickly turned into a passion for teaching. Alyanna fell in love with the sense of community and how movement brings people together.
Life in Tasmania gave Alyanna the confidence to explore different interests, build a meaningful career and discover communities that feel like a family.
“Tasmania has a unique way of encouraging you to dream big while reminding you to stay grounded.”
“The community opens doors, the lifestyle gives you space to grow, and nature reminds you to slow down and appreciate the journey.”
Top tips from Alyanna
Alyanna encourages new international students in Tasmania to lean on your community, have courage to slow down when feeling overwhelmed and explore all aspects that Tasmania has to offer.
And remember, you have the ability to create a life that is genuinely yours.