How Bella Mantakul found her future in secondary education at UTS

Taking a new direction

Although she was excited about becoming a teacher, changing career paths wasn't a decision Bella took lightly.

"Changing careers was a little intimidating at first. I'd studied marketing, so moving into teaching felt like a big step."

Those doubts quickly eased once she began the degree.

"When I met the tutors and started the subjects, I realised this was exactly where I wanted to be."

The Master of Secondary Education prepares future teachers through a combination of academic study and practical classroom experience. For Bella, the balance between theory and real-world learning helped reinforce her decision to pursue teaching.

A study experience that took learning overseas

One of Bella's most memorable experiences at UTS came through an international study opportunity in South Korea.

Selected as one of ten students to participate in a 10-day program, Bella visited schools and universities to explore the similarities and differences between Australian and Korean education systems.

Beyond the professional learning, the experience helped her build strong connections with fellow students and academics.

"It was such a fun experience. We spent 10 days together, visited schools, did some sightseeing, and got to know each other really well."

The opportunity broadened her perspective on education and remains one of the highlights of her time at UTS.

"It was a really special experience. I don't think I expected to learn so much in such a short amount of time."

Read more about Bella’s South Korea experience.

Building confidence through professional placements

Professional experience placements have played a major role in Bella's development as a teacher.

One aspect she particularly valued was how early placements are integrated into the degree.

"UTS gives you the opportunity to get into schools quite early, which helps you understand what teaching is really like."

In her first year, Bella completed a six-week placement that challenged her to step outside her comfort zone and apply what she had learned in class.

"I learned so much from that placement. It made me a much stronger person and gave me firsthand experience of being in a classroom every day."

Working alongside experienced teachers helped her develop practical skills in lesson planning, classroom management, and communication.

"My supervising teacher taught me the importance of building positive relationships with students and creating a supportive classroom environment."

Most importantly, the placement confirmed she had chosen the right career.

"That experience really sealed the deal for me. It showed me that I could be a teacher."

Learning from experienced educators

Alongside placements, Bella has benefited from opportunities to connect with experienced teachers and school leaders through events hosted at UTS.

One standout experience was an education conference that brought together teachers, school executives, and education professionals from across the sector.

"It was really valuable because we could ask questions about things we were genuinely worried about."

Sessions covered topics including behaviour management, lesson planning, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

"Hearing directly from experienced teachers gave us practical advice that you don't always get from a textbook."

For Bella, these opportunities helped bridge the gap between university study and professional practice.

Finding community at UTS

The collaborative nature of the teaching degree has also helped Bella build lasting friendships.

"In teaching, we work together a lot. There are group projects, discussions, and activities where everyone gets involved."

Through classes, placements, and the Korea program, she has developed a strong support network of fellow students.

"Especially through placement and the Korea trip, I've made some really close friends."

She believes that sense of community is one of the defining features of studying at UTS.

"Everyone is really welcoming, and there's a genuine sense of belonging."

Already working towards her future career

The combination of coursework, placements, and industry engagement has already helped Bella take the next step in her professional journey.

While completing her degree, she has started working as a casual teacher, applying the skills and confidence she developed through her studies.

"It's made me really confident being in front of students and managing a classroom."

With one semester remaining, her goal is to secure a full-time teaching position after graduation.

She feels well prepared for what comes next.

"The placements, the opportunities, and the support from the teaching staff have all helped me feel confident about my future career."

Looking back, Bella says her experience at UTS has given her something even more valuable than a qualification.

"UTS helped me realise that I've found a career that's right for me. It's a career I'm certain about."