Eastwood local, Vera Viriya has joined over 200 degree graduates from across the state at the Higher Education Graduation Ceremony held at TAFE NSW Ultimo this week.

Vera Viriya graduated from a Bachelor of Information Technology (Network Security) in front of ten dignitaries including TAFE NSW Managing Director Dr Caralee McLiesh, family and friends.

After being a victim of credit card theft, Vera decided to enrol in a Bachelor of Information Technology (Network Security) at TAFE NSW Meadowbank. Vera joined TAFE NSW with a 3D Art and Animation, and Graphic Design qualification. With her non-IT background, Vera found the degree challenging, but credits her learning to TAFE NSW teachers and counselors.

“Coming from a non-IT background, I found the degree and terminology very challenging. I was fortunate enough to have a TAFE NSW teacher who mentored me throughout the process,” she said.

Vera thoroughly enjoyed her time at TAFE NSW, and had some invaluable experience along the way.

“During my time at TAFE NSW, I had the opportunity to participate in an all-girls Cyber Security Challenge, and take part in an internship in Sydney and Melbourne with an IT company to gain practical experience. These invaluable experiences have developed me professionally and personally, and helped me to clarify what I want to do in my career.

“Thanks to TAFE NSW, I’m now working for Deloitte as a Graduate in their Cyber Risk Advisory team. This will open up the doors for national and international career opportunities. I’ll have the opportunity to work on challenging topics including penetration testing, red teaming, cyber crisis simulations, global security transformation programs.  Deloitte is globally ranked as number one in Security Consulting, and I credit TAFE NSW for giving me a foot in the door,” Ms Viriya concluded.  

TAFE NSW Relieving Regional General Manager, Paul Williams, commended the graduates on their commitment and dedication to studying a degree at TAFE NSW, which has equipped them with the practical skills and work experience they need to pursue their chosen career.

“All TAFE NSW graduates have had first-hand contact with leading employers and understand their chosen industry through both practical and theoretic study. We congratulate them on their achievements and are confident they will have successful and satisfying careers,” Paul Williams said.

The ceremony also included graduates from the Bachelor of 3D Art and Animation, Bachelor of Design (Interior Design), Diploma of Information Technology, Bachelor of Fashion Design, Associate Degree of Fashion Design and Bachelor of Property Valuation.

For more information about studying a Degree at TAFE NSW, visit tafensw.edu.au or call 131 601.

Media contact: Laura Kelly, TAFE NSW Business Partner, mobile 0411 777 676 or laura.kelly40@tafensw.edu.au