“The teachers were highly experienced, knowledgeable and helpful. Any queries I had were answered quickly by email.”

Working full-time while studying for a postgraduate qualification online takes dedication and commitment. EITGraduate Online student Helen Gao has risen to the challenge and is now in her second term studying for a Postgraduate Certificate in Information Technology.

Based in Beijing, China, Helen completed her degree with a Major in Computer Networking at the Beijing College of Finance and Commerce, graduating with excellence in both design and practice.

Since leaving College, Helen has gained 14 years experience in the IT field, including 11 years working for some of the world’s top 500 enterprises.

“I am currently a Senior Network Specialist, working for a multinational corporation. I am in charge of network operations, project management and vendor management. This includes network troubleshooting and leading network projects,” says Helen.

Helen continues to aim high and would like to complete an EIT Master’s Degree in New Zealand once the borders reopen.  With her online study progressing well, she is well on her way to achieving her goal.

“I took two courses in the first term, Cybersecurity in the Enterprise, and Quantitative Methods and Contemporary Tools,” she says. “The teachers were highly experienced, knowledgeable and helpful. Any queries I had were answered quickly by email.”

Online study doesn’t come without its challenges. “Communicating with teachers and classmates is more challenging while studying online rather than face to face. However, I think it’s a good way to learn during the COVID-19 pandemic,” says Helen

There have been many highlights, including EIT’s Academic Inquiry programme which helps students with academic report writing. Equally, Helen has found the EIT Online platform invaluable in supporting her learning.

“EIT Online is a good platform. I can find almost anything I need and can access Student Webmail, Timetables, Library Services and information about APA Referencing,” says Helen.

Overall, Helen is settling in well and making the most of the support services available at EIT. “The International Student Support Team is excellent. Any questions I had were answered very quickly by email. Any IT issues were resolved quickly by the Service Desk. The support and services at EIT are wonderful.”