When Jackie first arrived in Melbourne in July 2015, she was an international student stepping into the unknown. She had left China at just 18 to pursue her studies, unsure where life in Australia would take her. Nearly ten years later, she has built a new home, a career she is proud of, and a strong sense of belonging at St John Ambulance Victoria.

Jackie began her Australian journey with a bachelor’s degree in Banking and Finance, followed by a Master’s in IT. Like many international students, her study path shifted and adapted as she explored new opportunities and navigated immigration requirements. Her life took an unexpected turn in 2020 when the COVID-19 travel ban meant she had to remain in China for a year before returning to Melbourne in 2021 to start her professional life.

Her first job in Australia came soon after returning, but when that employer suddenly closed the business and moved overseas, Jackie found herself back on the job hunt.
“I probably submitted around 100 resumes,” she recalls. “I had interviews and offers, but St John stood out.”

What drew her to St John was more than just a role.
“I knew the culture here. We’re a large organisation with a strong purpose, a charity that does meaningful work. That mattered to me.”

In October 2024, Jackie joined the Finance team as an Accounts Payable and Procurement Officer. Her role is a vital one: managing supplier invoices, assisting with purchasing, and making sure staff have what they need, right down to the everyday essentials like milk, fruit, tea, coffee beans and the workplace supplies that keep everything running smoothly.

The job hasn’t been without its challenges. Jackie’s role was created by merging two previous positions, and she stepped into it just weeks before a key colleague left.
“There were moments when I felt overwhelmed,” she says honestly. “But I received support from the team, people like Brian and many others who helped me settle in. That made a big difference.”

Despite the steep learning curve, Jackie says working at St John has helped her feel more settled than ever in Australia.
“I feel more at home now,” she says. “I’ve made friends here; you are one of them!”

Outside of work, Jackie lives with her partner and their cat and enjoys a busy social life. Her weekends are filled with badminton games, catch-ups with friends, and homemade Chinese feasts prepared by her partner, who works from home. Dumplings and noodle soup are among her favourites.

Growing up in China, Jackie describes her childhood as loving but academically demanding, shaped by a strict education system and high expectations. As an only child, moving to the other side of the world was a huge step, one her parents supported, knowing she would find a better work-life balance here.

“In my hometown, several of my friends often work overtime due to the demands of their jobs.” She explains. “Compared with such a competitive and stressful lifestyle, my parents wanted me to have a healthier life, even though they miss me.”

Next January, Jackie’s parents will visit Melbourne for the first time, something she is both excited and nervous about.
“They don’t drive here, so they’ll rely on us. I’m thinking of taking them to Tasmania. It will be warm and beautiful.”

As for her future at St John, Jackie is keeping an open mind. She knows she enjoys finance, collaboration and working with numbers, and she is eager to continue growing her career in this space.
“This is an area I really enjoy,” she says. “I’m still learning, but I’m motivated. We have a great finance team.”

Jackie’s journey is one of resilience, exploration and finding purpose far from home. Her story reflects the experiences of many who start their Australian lives as international students and go on to become valued members of our community.

We are proud to have Jackie as part of St John and look forward to seeing what her next chapter holds.