Ivana is grateful for her life adventures

Ivana

It was 20^th September 2010 when I hopped on a plane to Sydney. Straight out of high school, full of energy, heroic determination, bravery and maybe a bit of foolishness, I was definitely hungry for adventure.

At the time, I didn’t realize that I was standing on the threshold of hundreds of opportunities, tough decisions and a process of self - discovery. My visa was granted for six months, but if someone had told me then, that I would live in Sydney for the next seven years, I would have said, “No way!"

Unbelievably, these seven years have passed so quickly. I can’t believe how many things I have learnt in so many different fields. Over the first two years I learnt English as a beginner. I then travelled around Australia and fell in love with a Mauritian guy. During this time I worked in a supermarket and a bakery and learnt how things work in Australia compared to my country, Slovakia.

Later on I entered the Australian Institute of Music. After three years I successfully completed my Bachelor of Music in classical performing arts, as an opera singer. Towards the end of my studies I also applied for permanent residency, which was granted. Since that time I have tried a few different positions such as a nanny, live in au pair, Slovak folk dancing teacher, Slovak language teacher and as a freelance singer.

Now I have time to reflect on my decisions. I know there's always room for improvement to work harder, to study more, or to achieve more. Having been born a perfectionist, it's difficult to give myself credit for what I achieved. Also it wasn’t easy to be separated from my family, lost in the world, not knowing where I belong. However looking back now, it was definitely worth it!

Now I've set my sights on gaining an administrative or student services position and my DL teacher Christine is helping me complete CSWE 3.

I can’t believe how lucky I am for all these experiences, friendships and feelings. I don’t own much except a few books and some clothes. However, thanks to my life journey, I have a warm soul which no one can ever take from me. I'm so grateful! 

A big thank you to Ivana for sharing her life adventures in Australia. If you'd like to read more about her singing career just click on this link http://ivanapasovicova.com.au/

• Ivana challenged herself by working in diverse occupations. What are the advantages of working in a variety of jobs?
• Ivana says, 'Having been born a perfectionist, it's difficult to give myself credit for what I've achieved.' Why is it important to acknowledge your achievements?'
• Gratefulness gives Ivana 'a warm soul'. When you are grateful for something, how does it make you feel?