Breaking Barriers: Sam's Triumph in English

For Sam Koraeel, the path to mastering English as an additional language was paved with challenges, but his tireless determination propelled him forward. As a refugee who arrived in Australia with no knowledge of English, Sam embarked on a remarkable journey, studying the Certificate III in EAL (Access) EAL33122 at Melbourne Polytechnic and was ultimately recognised as the Outstanding Student of the Year for English as an Additional Language (EAL).

Sam's transition to a new country and language was not without its obstacles. "Arabic is a very different language. It's so hard to start learning English, but I did it," he recalls. Despite the initial hurdles, Sam worked with dedication to reach great new heights.

Finding Joy in New Experiences

Amidst the challenges of adapting to a new culture, Sam found comfort in the simple pleasures of life, such as savouring the unique flavours of Australian cuisine. "My experience with the Australian food was very amazing, especially the meat pie because it was bakery and sauce together. It was a really, really good combination," he reminisces.

Passion for Photography

However, it was Sam's passion for photography that truly ignited his spirit. In his free time, he would often wander, camera in hand, capturing the beauty of nature and landscapes. "When I am going to take a picture, I put all my emotion in my one second. So the picture is just a frame from all of life. So you can put all your feelings, emotions in one picture and present it to the people," he explains, the artistry behind his craft.

A Moment of Pride

When Sam received the news of his Outstanding Student of the Year award, it was a moment of profound pride and validation. "I felt like I did something in these two years, and I was very, very proud of myself," he said, as his accomplishment was a true testament to his perseverance and dedication.

In celebrating Sam's achievement, Melbourne Polytechnic honours not only his academic success but also his strength in overcoming linguistic barriers and his ability to find comfort and expression through photography.

Aspirations for the Future

As Sam looks towards the future, his aspirations soar high. "Hopefully I can see myself as a big designer to change something in my life," he says with ambition.

Through his journey, Sam has proven that language is not merely a means of communication but a canvas upon which one can paint dreams, emotions, and aspirations. His story is a powerful reminder that with perseverance and a willingness to embrace new experiences, even the most daunting challenges can be transformed into opportunities for growth and self-discovery.