Graduation season is coming again! I decided to share something pretty different from my other blog posts today - everything about my Temporary Graduate Visa. It was almost 1 year that I decided to apply for this visa after my graduation. I still remember this time last year I was very panic about the application, the process, the timeline etc. So I wanna share my experience and something that I wish I knew before applying, something not basic and the Internet didn't tell me.

1. The Timeline
Know Your Completion Date
485 visa only allow applicants to apply after the official completion date of your degree. Neither the day you finish your exam, nor your graduation day. Each semester has the official date for completion. Check your uni calendar or ask student service. Once you know the date, get your completion letter from your uni student service, which usually takes within 30 minutes to be ready and free of charge.

Know Your Student Visa Expiry Date
485 visa only let applicants apply within 6 months after completing your program. With the requirement of a valid visa, you should submit your application before your student visa expired. I would recommend submitting about 1 week prior to your student visa expired, to elongate your stay in Australia. For example, my visa expired on 15th March. I submitted on the 9th March.

Book Your IELTS Test
If you want to save time or you have time between exam finished to your graduation, do your IELTS test. IELTS Tests are quite high demand and it only happens on Saturdays. It is often full within a short period of time. Check the available IELTS Test centre and book in advance.

2. The Process
After knowing all the important dates, it's still pretty confusing how the application actually works. For me, I got really confused about the visa application because I never do it by myself before and I also don't want to spend extra money on agents.

Create ImmiAccount & Health Declaration
Personally, I think the Home Affair website is so complicated to read but their online application guided me through the application step by step. Once you create your account (make sure you write down the log-in details), the first thing you should do is make a health declaration. Answer all the questions and the system will determine what kind of health examination you are required. Then an e-Medical referral letter will be sent to you, with your HAP ID and exam you needed to take.

Book Your Health Check
After you received the referral letter, you now can make an appointment with any registered health check clinic that recognised by Australia Government. It's totally fine to do the exam before submitting the application, because the clinic will automatically submit your report to Immigration and they will record the result with your HAP ID. For me, I found out doing the exams are cheaper in Hong Kong (Bupa Aus is over AUD350, while Quality Health Care is HKD1350), so I decided to book mine in Hong Kong when I was back for visiting.

Do A Health Insurance Research
There are so many insurance companies that provide OVHC. Compare a few policies: the price, health cover, reputation etc. There's website that compares different insurance companies, so do have a look before choosing. The one I chose is CBHS (link), their application is quite user-friendly and they are the cheapest (AUD63.35 per month). Once your policy begins, the insurance company will send you a letter to attach in the application.

Apply Your Police Check
To get your character check, log in to the online system (link). You are required to provide at least 2 identity-prove documents (i.e. passport, student card, credit card). After filling the forms, print out and sign the consent form. Upload it back and make your payment. I do mine in the post office since I can't do it online, so prepare for a post office run.

Scan, Attach & Submit
Now, you should have all the required documents and you can finally fill up all the details and questions provided by the system. Make sure you're in Australia when you do the application because the system does not allow submission outside Australia (can't continue the next step after certain pages). Scan or take photos of all the documents. There's an attachment session at the end, thus double check the attachments' numbers you enter along the application are correct.

Pay, Wait & Got it!
Once everything submitted and payment made, the Bridging Visa A will automatically be given to you and active when your student visa is expired. If you want to leave Australia during bridging, you will need to apply a Bridging Visa B, which allow you to travel out Australia while waiting the actual visa approved. The approving time really depends on the demand. If you apply earlier, it only takes 1 month or less. However, submission during the peak period might extend the waiting time. For me, I didn't get my visa until May (applied in March), because of an incorrect document. But once I got my document right, the approval only takes 1 week.

3. The Hacks
Agent is not neccessary.
Personally, I think using an agent is just a lazy option. The whole process is easy and smooth if you're willing to spend time doing research and ask around. Some agents offer a free consultation, so if you really have questions, just give them a call or visit. Save that money.

Look for IELTS discount.
I believe most uni offer 50% off or other discounts for graduates to take IELTS Test. I got 50% off from taking the IELTS in my uni exam centre. Save that money.

Make sure you apply the correct police check.
As mentioned, I got an incorrect document which is my police check. I applied for "overseas employment purpose" instead of "immigration purpose". It leads me applied the Queensland Police Check, instead of National Police Check.

Download a scanning app.
Using a phone scanning app will make your life so much easier. CamScanner helps me to "scan" all my documents just by taking photos from my phone and add a scanning filter. It also allows multiple pages, naming the documents and easy sharing to a computer. Save your time figuring how to use a scanner.

This visa only allowed to apply once in a person's lifetime. 2 years is long, yet not very long. Is it worth to apply? Depends. Same as all other decisions in your life, take a deep consideration and ask for advice! *DISCLAIMER: I'm not an education or migration agent, all option stated is base on my personal experience.

Some useful link:
ImmiAccount https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/Trav/Visa/Immi
Online AFP Application https://afpnationalpolicechecks.converga.com.au/
485 Visa https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/trav/visa-1/485-
SEE YOU,
cherry xoxo

Long-waited hello to the Internet! A lot had happened in my life in the past 8 months and finally decide to update here. The other day my boyfriend and I decided to visit Toowoomba for the first time for the annual Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers. The annual event took place in multiple gardens and parks, with free entry while some events cost around $5-30 (adult). This year, the carnival started from 21st - 30th September, the beautiful sunny springtime in Queensland. One of the highlights of the carnival was Grand Central Floral Parade on 22nd September (Saturday).

It took 1hr 45min to drive from Brisbane to Toowoomba, a bit of journey so make sure you pack your water and snacks! The first stop was Queens Park, the main botanic garden of the carnival. The whole park was planted with colourful flowers and plants where you can take a bunch of photos. There're lots of grass area and an off-leash area for picnic, kids and doggies.
If you have time, you may also visit Laurel Bank Garden, which is 5 mins drive from Queens Park. It's similar to Queens Park but smaller. During the first week, there was a Twilight Tour in the park which cost $5. The one-hour tour showed the darker side of plant life from the experts and found out exotic plants.

The second stop we went to was Japanese Gardens located in the University of Southern Queensland. The sakura tree planted along the lake and the red bridges gives a Japan-vibe to the whole garden.
We ended our day in Picnic Point lookout where you can clearly see the Table Top Mountain and take a break in the Picnic Point Cafe.

Toowoomba is a really small town but definitely worth to check out the annual carnival, which is the perfect way and reason to visit Toowoomba and celebrate Spring! I vlog a little bit in Toowoomba, check out my latest vlog:
SEE YOU,
cherry xoxo

Hey 2018, another year is passed, another life achievement unlocked.

I was looking back to all the previous yearly review post I did. It amazing how much I grow and how different I am compare to 3 years ago. Last year, I wrote "If 2014 is the year of changing, 2015 is the year of realising, 2016 is definitely a year of growing." For 2017, is a year of trusting.

Being the final year student, I was constantly asked about future and post-study plan since day one. I didn't really think about it seriously until recently...I kinda know I wanna stay longer in Australia, but at the same time I am afraid of making decisions, facing changes and planning about the future. I panic about graduating, being unemployed and leaving the city. I panic, but that's not everything. I still find joy in spending with friends, fellowship and serving in church. I tried my best to build better relationship with individual friend and treasure every friendship I've got. The panic is still here at the moment, but I didn't let it takes away my happiness and controls of my mind.

2016, I spent so much time on learning and focus on the word. 2017 I decided to focus on relying and trusting God. In the midst of assignments, committee meeting and training, even though it's tiring sometime, I know I'm glorifying Him, I know He's providing and strengthening me. This transiting period is killing, it's scary and feels helpless. But it forces me to rely God furthermore, to pray harder, to trust Him entirely.

2017 brought me to lots of places: Taipei, Seoul, Jeju Island, Tasmania, New Castle, Sydney, Canberra and Melbourne. 2017 also brought me so many first time. I finish my first full-time internship, first time serve as keyboardist in church, first time rock climb, first time visit Tassie, first time seeing aurora and milky way, first time hike in snow mountains, first time road trip and drive in Australia, first bachelor degree gained...

Thanks for being with me in this 3 years journey. Hey future me, I hope 2018 will be a worry-free year. Continue to trust the Lord, trust that He will provide everything and plan the best for you. Don't panic, everything is gonna alright. It's ok to get lost after uni, it's really ok.

Bye 2017,
Hello 2018.

Watch my latest video:
SEE YOU,
cherry xoxo

Hello there, long time no see! Autumn is finally here in Australia! In the last Easter break, I had a full schedule and amazing holiday in Brisbane. And I turned 21! Not really sure what does this mean to me, but I definitely had a blessed birthday.

On Easter Saturday, me and my friends went to The Longan Farm in Narangba, which is about 50 minutes North from the Brisbane. It is not a long distance from Brisbane, which is a huge plus on this farm. It only opens from 9am to 3pm in selected weekends in March and April.
Since it is a special free entry day, we just have to pay the deposit for the cutter, that we can get it back when you return it. After we took the plastic bag and cutter, the staff brought us into the farm and gave a short instruction. Now, we are all ready to pick the longan!
The farm is not huge but longan trees are covered all over the hill and each tree is full of big, round golden longans. I never see such big longan in my life! One best thing about this farm is you can eat the longans as many as you want while you are picking. I did not expect to pick a lot of longans home, but after I tried the first one, I just can't stop picking and put it in my mouth!

The Longan Farm
Address: Cnr Roberts & Raynbird Road Narangba, Brisbane, QLD 4504
Email: Thelonganfarm@bigpond.com.au
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thelonganfarm

After the weekend, that I attended two baptisms, me and my friends went picnic in Southbank. I made banana bread and brought some of the longans to share. My friends made salad, chicken wings, brownie, sushi rolls...it was such a chill afternoon, with awesome weather!

The main event of the break was Easter Camp from my uni youth fellowship in Mount Tamborine. It was my third time joining and this year theme is 'Go Forth', where we studied the book of Colossians. We also had Boy Girl Relation workshop, such a interesting and important remainder of all single ladies. Thank God for providing, that I could finish leading all worships and giving us awesome weather. Good food, good friends, good fellowship. At the last night, everyone surprised me with a cake and birthday songs. Even though I look calm and not surprised, I truly thankful and felt blessed.

Watch my Easter/birthday vlog:

SEE YOU,
cherry xoxo

Hi guys! I am back with another post about my internship experience in Casetify. I had been working as a full time social media marketing intern from Nov to Feb. It seems so long but time flies and I can't believe it ended last week! After 3 months, I learnt so much about marketing and social media, as well as workplace and interview hacks, which I really wanna share the tips to help all the students out there to get an internship.

How I apply the internship
What I heard is you have to apply at least one month in advance, so I applied all internships in late Sep (I wanna start in early Nov). You can find so many internship positions online. If you love a particular brand, always check their career page, which usually linked in the bottom of their website. Apply those companies that developed an internship program will increase your chance to get in. They provide more resources on intern and you will learn so much more. Take Casetify as an example, since it is a start-up, the whole marketing team is form by interns. As they have limited budget, we were asked to work as full-time but paid as intern.

I sent 4 application in total, and I got 2 companies replied me! In my emails, I included my CV, cover letter and all social media links. Depends on the position I am applying, I modified my CV and cover letter. Cover letter is a document where I introduce myself, explain why I want this internship and my previous working experience. Make sure your letter is in a separate attachment, not compose inside the email!

It is so important to tailor your application for each company!! For example, in my graphic design intern application, I emphasise I took design course in uni before even though I am not major in design. I also included my (unprofessional) portfolio, which I emphasise I did a lot of infographic and poster design. (ps the company end up hire me because they want someone to do infographic!) For marketing intern, I emphasise I did professional writing course and media courses. Although I never did business before, I involved in a lot of group projects and team work experience.
How I prepare for the interviews
I received a first round Skype interview from Casetify. I basically google the sample questions and wrote down the answers, and practice before the interview. This interview was get to know me and share my career plans etc. In the second round, I was asked to prepare for 3 questions based on the companies' social media and marketing strategy. Since I don't have any marketing background, I showed my passion in social media and KOL industry!

For internship interview, employer focus more on your attitude, rather than your actual skills or academic. They see your preparation and attitude during the interview. You need to share your passion and willingness to learn, and most importantly show that you prepared for the interview! Bring your notebook or laptop to present your answers. If there's no question you can prepare, bring pens and notebook to mark down anything. You may also bring your CV, but make sure it's enough for all interviewers (2 copies is safe!) Prepare 1-2 questions to ask the interviewer! Ask anything about the company or the industry.

Don't over dress to the interview! For start-up or media companies, just wear causal but smart and neat. Still, avoid wearing too causal, like flip flop and hats. Unless you are going for banks or business related companies, wear more formal instead. If you are not sure what to wear, always google or ask your friends and family!
How I get ready for the first day
First impression is so important! Arrive the office at least 10 mins before. Bring everything you required to bring, laptop, notebook, pen...show your boss you are ready to work! Smile and be friendly. Be aware your expression and what you are saying. Be respectful and polite is the key! Especially to full times. Prepare a short self introduction and a fun fact, that make conversation easier to start.

What I learnt from the internship
I think my take away from this internship is learn a lot about the social media marketing and the industry. I learnt how influencers make money from social media and how more and more companies advertise their products through social media. By talking to the full times and other interns, they showed me the real situation of this industry in HK. Speaking of workplace hacks, remember you are just intern...be open to learn and careful to details. Always ask SMART questions. Bosses only ask smart people to help them and give you more opportunities. Everyone hate flatterer, don't be one of them. Show respect to your boss at the right timing.

I highly recommend all students to get an internship before graduation. Not about polishing your CV or money, but the working experience, which make you different from other graduates. There are so many uni graduates every semester, no matter top uni or local uni, you need to make yourself stand-out from others! I hope these tips can motivate you and help you get your dream intern. If you have any question or experience, comment below!

SEE YOU,
cherry xoxo

Hey 2017, I have been procrastinating since day one. Finally, I decided to update the blog.

January flies pass so fast, that I can't imagine February is coming. I upload a video while ago throwing back my 2nd year of uni, and I'm gonna enter my third year next month! I realise that I had been doing "My 201x" post since 2014, so I told myself that I need to do one this year. So here I am, telling you my 2016.

If 2014 is the year of changing, 2015 is the year of realising, 2016 is definitely a year of growing.

Both mentally and spiritually. (Of course physically)

2015 I spent so much time thinking of life, friends and family, since uni kinda open up my mind. And after all the changes I had, I realised how different I thought I am and I really am. Last year, after knowing myself better, I guess I developed a maturer mind set. I treasure my friends and family even more, getting more serious on the relationship with them. I enjoy my self-time more and more. Being alone is a refreshing feeling everyone should have. There's one saying "the longest relationship you have in life, is the relationship between you and yourself." If you always surround with people, you let them entertain you, let their words shape you and let their thoughts become your thoughts. I'm not saying listening from others is bad, but we need to know our own thoughts. Sometimes, I learn so much more when I quiet myself, avoid all the noise, and let my thoughts sink. It makes things 10 times clearer and easier. I guess we all get used to surround with friends as young people. But hey, it's ok to be lonely.

This changing of perspective really helps me do my quiet time and spiritual growth. I enjoy my self-time because I know happiness is not seeking from people, but God. And that's why I grow even more in 2016, knowing the ultimate joy is my faith. Nothing on Earth can bring me this real eternal joy that come from God. And I guess that's why I came to decide to get baptise in 2016, even though I'm overseas. In 21 August, I was baptised! I can't felt more thankful and happy that my parents and friends in Aus can witness my growth and faith. God's provides are really sufficient and great!

In 2016, I'm so thankful to be able to travel so much. Singapore and Malaysia, Melbourne, Adelaide and Japan, you all so lovely!
I can't wait to see what will happen in 2017, the final year of uni (hopefully). I'm praying it will be another fruitful year.
Hey future me, I hope 2017 will make you knowing what you really wanna do after graduate and enjoy every moment in uni. My little goals in 2017 is learn more about coding, stay in a healthier life style, and of course get a job I like after graduate.

Bye 2016,
Hello 2017.

Watch my latest video:

SEE YOU,
cherry xoxo

Hi guys!! Oh gosh it's been a long time since I update...the first semester of uni just pass and it was busy to update the blog, sorry about that. Anyway, since i been to BNE for 4 months now and i recently backed HK for semester break, i can finally share some of my experience and life in AUS to u guys. Hope u will enjoy and love this city as i do. 

Kangaroo Point | Brisbane CBD

More HK friends:)

More and More HK friends LOL

First time in Eat Street Market! So crowded

Lone Pine Koala sanctuary, a zoo where u can find all aussie animal.

Kangaroos are jumping everywhere!! Take selfie with them:)

Paying $18 to hug a koala bear with photo

San Churro | Desserts

Chur | Burgers

Dinner at Sabu House

After the run...illumined

Before the run

Dreamworld!! Go get an annual pass!!

Surfer Paradise

Study oversea is not easy, especially without your family here. But luckily i got my uncle and auntie here to help and support and i am blessed to meet a lot of new friends who are all nice and funny. They really make me feel not alone and we learn together, share experience and support each other. It's always helpful to meet some senior students, they have been experience the same thing as you and they know the places. So they can bring you there, tell you about uni stuff/ policy, all their experiences. I learnt a lot in these 4 months, how to cook, take care myself, due with all the relationship...but i know there are still a lot of thing to see, to learn...and i hope these 3 years are worthy spent with no regret!