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Building a Brighter Future: Rebecca’s Story

Building a Brighter Future: Rebecca’s Story

Jul 24 2024

Rebecca Abeykoon’s path to nurturing young minds wasn't merely an academic pursuit. It stemmed from a personal desire to provide a positive experience for children. Reflecting on her own childhood experiences, Rebecca states, "I wouldn't say I had the best experience in childcare." This personal experience firmly established her calling to work with children and ensure their well-being.

Finding a Home at Melbourne Polytechnic

As an international student from Sri Lanka, navigating a new educational system and adapting to a different culture could have been daunting. However, Rebecca found a welcoming haven at Melbourne Polytechnic. "Being an international student is not easy," she acknowledges, "and I've always felt welcome and that I belong here." This sense of belonging undoubtedly contributed to her award-winning academic success in the Bachelor of Early Childhood Education.

Recognition and Appreciation

Rebecca's passion for early childhood education extends beyond academic excellence. When informed about her nomination for the Outstanding Student award, her initial reaction was pure disbelief. "Honestly, when I got the email saying that I was nominated, I just couldn't believe it," she says. The prestigious award served as a powerful validation of her hard work and dedication, a testament to the impact she strives to make.
A woman with long black hair and a black shirt smiling at the camera
“Being an international student is not easy," she acknowledges, "and I've always felt welcome and that I belong here.”
Rebecca Abeykoon
Winner of the Overall Outstanding Higher Education Student of the Year in Arts, Education and Agritech 2024

Building Relationships with Young Learners

Perhaps the most striking aspect of Rebecca's story is her persistent commitment to building positive relationships with children. "I've always valued relationships," she states, "so it's just amazing that I get to have these beautiful relationships with children." Her passion for fostering positive connections with young learners shines through in her studies and will certainly translate into her future career.

Melbourne Polytechnic is immensely proud to recognise Rebecca Abeykoon as the 2024 Overall Outstanding Higher Education Student of the Year in Arts, Education and Agritech. Her dedication and passion for early childhood education is truly inspiring. We are confident that Rebecca will continue to make a significant impact on the field, creating nurturing environments and fostering positive connections with countless young learners throughout her career.