STEPS AMEP Student Diary: Rabia Chreki

Rabia Chreki has been learning English in the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) in Alice Springs, she enjoys the teaching style and likes “meeting with different cultured students and studying English with the kindest teachers.”

Three years ago, Rabia moved from Syria to Australia with her husband and children.

“I’m very happy with my choice to come to Australia because I found everything good for me and my family,” Rabia said.

When she arrived, she knew how important it was to learn English for her new life in Alice Springs.

She began studying at STEPS AMEP over two years ago and wants to share her experience.

What advice would you give someone who is new to Australia?
The most important advice I give to anyone who comes to Australia is that they must learn English before they can communicate with people easily, and they should understand that life in Australia depends on job.

What was your life like before you moved to Australia?
I lived in Syria. My life was very difficult before I moved to Australia because of the war in my country.

What did you know about Australia before coming here?
I knew about Australia before coming here. It’s a secular country and respects its citizens and provides them with a good life.

What have been your biggest challenges in Australia?
My first and biggest challenge is how to speak English.

Do you work? What do you like about your job?
I am a pharmacy assistant because helping people makes me happy and I like to communicate with a lot of different people.

Can you describe your experience with STEPS AMEP?
It’s very good how the teachers interest us.

What achievement are you most proud of?
Now, I can communicate with people because I can speak English fairly well.

What are your goals for the future?
Speak English fluently.

If you would like to further build your English language skills, STEPS AMEP can help. We have classes in Casuarina, Palmerston and Alice Springs. Call 1300 585 868 to find out more about classes in Casuarina and Palmerston and 08 8950 7600 for classes in Alice Springs.

The Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) is funded by the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs