Natellie Sun
Where is your home city?
Taiwan
What languages do you speak?
English (native), Mandarin (speaking and listening)
Where do you live now?
Hong Kong
What was the name of your course?
Bachelor of Arts, Major in Human Resources (HR) and Japanese; and Master of Business Administration
What is the name of your education institution?
University of New South Wales (UNSW) for my bachelor degree; and University of Newcastle for my Master's degree.
When did you graduate?
2004
Be open to learn and be open to try. The experience and exposure are the most important thing whilst being a student.
Student life
Why did you choose to study in this field?
I studied Japanese in high school and hence I thought I would pursue the language further at university since I also had the opportunity to live and work in Japan. In regards to HR, I have always been interested in working with people so I decided to major in it.
Why did you decide to study in NSW?
My family immigrated to Australia when I was 2 years old, so it was natural for me to continue my university studies in NSW.
Tell us about your experience studying in NSW
University was a great experience. It provided an opportunity to connect with some friends from high school and meet new people from different nationalities at university allowing cross cultural learning. It was also interesting to learn about different courses and different universities through community networks.
What was the highlight of your experience living in NSW?
NSW offers great weather and a lot of activities. For all those foodies out there, Australia offers great produce and authentic experiences from different cultures. On top of that, there is the ocean and the beaches and then if you’re looking for more greenery, there are rivers and the bush to explore. Lastly, you will meet great people along the way.
What opportunities has studying in NSW given to you?
Studying in NSW allowed me to connect with people from different backgrounds and has exposed me to a diverse multicultural environment.
Did you work or undertake projects with employers or industry groups during your studies? If yes, how did this experience benefit your career?
During days off, I worked in various industries including HR, which gave me a taste for it at a basic level. This work experience, combined with my studies, allowed me to step into the industry.
Career goals and advice
What are you doing now in your career?
I work for a Fortune 500 company as a Managing Director overseeing 300 people across Greater China.
Why did you decide to follow your chosen career path?
I was always interested in working in the recruitment and HR solutions industry. I found that my HR studies gave me a great base line and set me up to do what I love most – working with different clients and helping people in their careers.
Can you share any career advice for current students or graduates?
Explore and work in different industries. The skills you pick up can very much help you excel when you officially enter the work force. Be open to learn and be open to try. The experience and exposure are the most important thing whilst being a student.
What is the best way to develop a social life in NSW?
Join clubs and be open to meet people and have a chat. If someone invites you to an event, say yes!
Do you remain involved with NSW? (if so, how)?
NSW is still home for me, and I hope to return to it one day.
Is there anything else you would like to share about your experience studying in NSW?
Australia and NSW are great - there is so much to offer, and it is so diverse. The experience will be life changing.
