Dreana Beitzel – aifc Student in Melbourne

What were you doing before taking on study at aifc (eg, what line of work/study?)?
I was, and still am working in a referral centre in emergency relief. We help people who are experiencing hardship and refer them to an appropriate service. We also give out food parcels, vouchers,  help with bills etc.

Why did you decide to study Counselling?
God had made it very clear to me that He had something else He wanted me to do. Soon after this a job opened up in emergency relief and I knew I needed more skills when interviewing people who are experiencing crisis in their lives.

What made you choose to study at aifc?.
I liked the combination of Biblical  and counselling subjects.

What would you like to do when you graduate?
I would like to do counselling when I graduate.  It’s such a privilege to listen to people’s stories and to provide an environment where they’re free to explore  what’s going on for them.

What do you like about the course so far?
I love how the course is a threefold experience. I’m learning the theory of counselling. I’m practicing what I’m learning and I’m also being challenged to look at and deal with my own stuff. It’s a very fulfilling and rewarding way to study.  Tasks, assignments, required reading and my personal and professional goals in my journalling often connect in some way.  I definitely see God working within the structure and content of the course.

The content, particularly in first year, was so rich with Biblical teaching  that my faith increased and is so much more real to me now.  I feel very grateful for this.

I definitely like that there’s no exams.

Last but not least, the support of the tutors is outstanding. I don’t know of any other course that has this level of support and guidance.  I can’t speak highly enough of the  tutors.  They’re patient, kind, knowledgeable and nothing is too much trouble.  I feel as though I’m travelling with somseone else who is always available to answer any questions along the way.

How is study fitting into your lifestyle?
I’m studying or working on aifc every spare moment I have. It’s becoming a lifestyle in itself.  It’s impacted the way I relate to my family, friends and work colleagues. It’s given me skills  that have helped me in every relationship I have.