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Dania shapes young minds and her own

This article appears in: Alumni stories, Education
Dania pictured with smiling with her daughty

When Dania Al Abiad obtained her Graduate Diploma in Teaching, she was delighted to be offered a teaching position straight away in her areas of interest. 

"Straight after I graduated with a teaching degree from CDU, I received a teaching position in a private school in Melbourne. I have been working there ever since as a specialist primary teacher teaching a second language and religious studies" said Dania.

It was the flexibility of studying online as well as the extensive internship of 80 days prior to graduation that helped Dania make the transition from student to teacher.

"I got a real picture of what awaits in the future showcasing the day to day demands of the job and the genuine rewards of teaching and being a part of a student’s life" she said. 

Aiming higher

While Dania loves her job, she had higher aspirations in the field of education. So, she applied to study a Masters of Education.

Wanting to achieve more, I applied for a Masters of Education at CDU. I was offered a place and with excitement as well as anxiousness, I accepted the offer

Diana Al Abiad and her sister


Even though Dania lives and works interstate, this has not been a barrier to her studies. The CDU online learning system has been of huge benefit.

Being interstate, having the flexibility to complete the course online played a pivotal role for me.

"It also gave me a chance to fulfil a goal that I had in mind for a very long time," she says.

Returning to study

After years of working, Dania offers this advice for returning to study: "Determination, hard work, optimism and support is needed at each stage of your studies. Make sure you are well equipped with them and that you have the support required throughout your learning journey. Nothing comes easy, however, nothing is impossible. Try your best, aim high and seek help when you need it."

With this level of commitment and determination, Dania has big plans for her career.

"I hope that my Masters will be a beneficial tool to further my expertise and give me the opportunity to create change that is very much needed in our education system" she said.

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