Dominic Tan, Dux, UWAFP Sept 2005
How long have you been at Taylors College?
1 and a half year.
What are you studying?
I am studying Commerce. I would like to be a CPA accountant working for big accounting firms and also be an investor in both shares and property markets.
Ask 5 friends to describe you in one word.
Humorous, friendly, polite, hardworking and smart.
What have you enjoyed the most about studying at Taylors?
The thing I have enjoyed the most is the friendly environment surrounding me and the helpful teachers ever ready to give me support during my studies.
What are your hobbies?
My hobbies include basketball, soccer, volleyball and also reading books on investing. I normally go out with my friends or with my family in Perth. I visit the cinemas, cafes and shopping centers all over Perth.
What is the most interesting place you’ve ever been to and why?
The most interesting place is Kings Park because of the breath-taking view of Perth at night that you get from the park.
Who is your favourite Taylors College teacher?
It is a tough one. But it would have to be Mr. David Enright. His trust and belief in me allowed me to enter school in September after only completing have a year of year 11. This is a great change in the amount of work required but he just knew I could do it. I am really grateful to him for letting me enter the September intake. In addition, his continued dedication to ensure that our foundation programs quality is always maintained at the highest level also made me feel that he is indeed a role model.
Tell an interesting story about an experience you’ve had at Taylors College.
We had this Geography fieldtrip which brought us to camp outside in the countryside. When we were at the campsite we had to go for this night walk in the wild forest. It was so dark that you could only see the stars in the sky. The interesting part was that teachers were positioned inside the forest to try to scare the students who were in groups of 10. This walk helped me and my friends learn the importance of teamwork and keep calm at times of uncertainty. This skill indeed had helped us finish our Foundation year with flying colors.
What is your most favourite item that you brought with you from home?
It will be my special file, which my best friends from Singapore made for me that contains their best wishes for me.
What is your favourite Aussie or Kiwi word?
Cheers mate!... HAHA!!
What makes you unique?
I am focused on my goals. I work hard and try to play hard. I feel that enjoyment and hard work come together. Without either of these two, one can never succeed. Personally I am just a normal boy, I do not come from a rich family or drive a sports car. I have an ultimate goal of making it in the competitive world one day.
What is the best thing that has ever happened to you?
The best thing will be to come to Taylors College, entering Foundation Year, meeting great friends, teachers and also someone special. Also not forgetting my family both in Singapore and Australia, I feel great to be part of such a wonderful family.
What advice would you give students who are planning to come to Australia?
Be prepared to enjoy yourself. Never ever be proud or arrogant in this country. Be friendly and you will find yourself at home. For Asians, please visit Northbridge for the range of fantastic food you can get. As for the weather, it is the most beautiful weather, despite being cold at times autumn and spring are great times to be visiting countryside and the beach.
Dominic Tan, UWAFP student, Perth campus