Rebuilding a life through learning: Hedyeh's journey to Outstanding Student of the Year

When Hedyeh arrived in Australia from Iran in 2024, she brought with her an impressive résumé. She held a PhD in Management, worked as a quality manager and inspector within the health system, and had spent years building a successful professional career. Yet despite her qualifications and experience, she faced a challenge familiar to many newly arrived migrants. 

She had the knowledge. She had the expertise. But she did not yet have the confidence to communicate in English in everyday Australian life. 

"English was the key," Hedyeh said. "Without it, I couldn't use my other abilities." 

That determination to unlock new opportunities through education would lead Hedyeh to Melbourne Polytechnic's Certificate III in EAL (Access) 22640VIC, where she not only transformed her own future but became a source of inspiration for countless others. 

At the Melbourne Polytechnic 2026 Graduation, Hedyeh received two honours; Outstanding English as an Additional Language Student of the Year and Outstanding Foundation Directorate Student of the Year, awarded for her excellence and achievements throughout her studies.  

For someone who once felt nervous speaking English, the recognition was almost unbelievable. 

"When they called my name, I couldn't believe it was me," she said. 

More than learning English as an Additional Language 

For Hedyeh, studying English was never simply about grammar or vocabulary. 

She chose Melbourne Polytechnic after positive recommendations from her husband and fellow migrants. What she discovered was an educational experience that helped her understand not only language, but also life in Australia. 

Through her studies, she learned about Australian culture, workplace rights, community services, bushfire safety, cyber security awareness and how to navigate everyday situations as a newcomer. 

"Melbourne Polytechnic was like a home," Hedyeh said. "You learn many more things than language. They care about every issue a migrant may face." 

This holistic approach helped her build confidence, independence and a sense of belonging in her new country.

How one student achieved success learning English 

From the moment she enrolled, Hedyeh approached her studies with extraordinary dedication. 

She rarely missed classes, made full use of Moodle resources and became a regular visitor to the Melbourne Polytechnic library, reading extensively to strengthen her language skills. Her teachers described her as determined, curious and eager to improve. 

She successfully completed her Certificate III in EAL (Access) 22640VIC and actively sought opportunities beyond the classroom. She participated in volunteer programs, practical placements and community activities designed to expand her skills and experience. 

Her advice to other students is simple: 

"Don't be afraid. Keep going. Put your studies as a priority and use every opportunity Melbourne Polytechnic provides." 

From learning English to mentoring others 

As Hedyeh's confidence grew, so did her desire to help others. 

Knowing firsthand how difficult it can be to start over in a new country, she completed AMEP volunteer tutor training and began volunteering as a teacher's aide for beginner English learners. She also volunteered as a Dari and Farsi interpreter, helping newly arrived migrants understand their study pathways and settle into their new environment.  

Many mornings, she could be found assisting other students, supporting learners who were facing the same challenges she had experienced only months earlier. 

"It makes me happy because I can be useful," she said. "When I came to Australia, I thought I was nothing. But Melbourne Polytechnic helped me find myself useful again." 

Her generosity extended beyond the classroom. In one memorable example, Hedyeh stayed with a fellow student in hospital until late in the evening, acting as an interpreter and support person after the student became seriously unwell in class. Her teachers described her as incredibly generous with both her time and her skills. 

Rediscovering confidence and creativity 

One of the most unexpected chapters in Hedyeh's journey came through an art project exploring growth, goals and careers. 

After years away from creative pursuits, she discovered a talent for painting. Inspired by her homeland, she created a striking artwork depicting a burning flower. 

The piece was featured on an artists' website and sold almost immediately. For Hedyeh, the experience symbolised something much deeper than artistic success. 

"EAL education did not simply change my life, it rebuilt it. Melbourne Polytechnic became the foundation on which I transformed from a hesitant newcomer into a confident, capable and community-minded individual."

 Looking to the future 

Hedyeh's learning journey is far from over. 

She recently completed studies in Workplace Health and Safety and has already enrolled in further training. Drawing on her extensive management background and growing interest in psychology, she hopes to specialise in psychosocial hazards and workplace wellbeing, an area of increasing importance across Australian workplaces. 

She has also begun a casual role as an administration assistant at Melbourne Polytechnic and remains committed to volunteering and giving back to the community that supported her. 

In fact, she hopes to continue volunteering with Melbourne Polytechnic for years to come. 

"It's my turn to return something," she said. "Melbourne Polytechnic did many things for me." 

An inspiration for others 

Hedyeh's story shows that learning is about more than gaining qualifications. It's about building confidence, finding your place in a new community and creating opportunities you may never have imagined. 

Her journey from an experienced health professional starting over in a new country to an award-winning English language student, mentor and volunteer is a reminder that progress doesn't always happen in a straight line. With persistence, support and a willingness to keep learning, it's possible to achieve more than you first thought. 

For anyone beginning their own journey, Hedyeh's advice is simple: keep learning, keep showing up and don't be afraid to take that first step. You never know where it might lead.