Santy Bernadet Halim
Where is your home country?
Indonesia
Where do you live now?
Jakarta, Indonesia
What languages do you speak?
Indonesian, English
What was the name of your course?
Diploma of Applied Science in Food Technology, Bachelor of Applied Science in Food Technology, Master of Technology Management
What was the name of your education institution?
TAFE NSW, Western Sydney University (Hawkesbury), University of New South Wales
When did you graduate?
Diploma in 1996, Undergrad in 1999 and Postgrad in 2001
Be open, flexible and agile. Learn as much as possible in any role that is offered to you and always challenge yourself to do more and do it better.
Student life
Tell us about your experience studying in NSW
It was an interesting and growing field and it wasn’t very common in Indonesia at the time. In the 1990’s, Indonesia had only one university offering Food Technology.
Why did you decide to study in NSW?
I chose to study in Sydney because it is a big city with a diverse and rich culture and it is famous for its beautiful beaches. I also have several family members there.
Tell us about your experience studying in NSW
As an international student, it was challenging, in the beginning, to adjust to the different learning methods. I was awarded a scholarship by the Australian government, so I was very motivated to study and I was really focused on completing my course.
What was the highlight of your experience living in NSW?
I loved the public transport and public facilities, they were very clean. The highlight for me was living and studying at UNSW and living on campus at International House. The environment at International House was supportive for learning with study rooms for group work and not noisy. It was very multicultural. I met students from many countries, which was good for networking. There were lots of events arranged for us such as parties, sporting events, movie nights and an annual gala dinner, and the food was provided to us three times per day with a variety of Western and Chinese foods.
What opportunities has studying in NSW given to you?
I received a job offer right after completing my post grad in FMCG. NSW gave me exposure to rich and diverse cultures in Sydney and a great international experience.
Career goals and advice
What are you doing now in your career?
I have been with Mondelez in Indonesia for almost 20 years where I have progressed to my current role in management.
Why did you decide to follow your chosen career path?
There was opportunity available and offered to me and I like the nature of my current work which is project based (less monotonous).
Can you share any career advice for current students or graduates?
Be open, flexible and agile. Learn as much as possible in any role that is offered to you and always challenge yourself to do more and do it better.
