When Faye Zhang arrived in Australia from China, she set out to build a future through education. Two and a half years later, that journey has led to a paid internship with Medibank through a new IDP partnership designed to help international students gain workplace experience and prepare for their careers.
Faye has been selected as the first recipient of an internship through the Medibank Academy, an initiative developed by IDP and Medibank to support international students as they transition from study into the workforce.
Based in Medibank's Sydney office, Faye will take on the role of Agent Partnership Support Officer. The internship has been shaped specifically around her degree and career aspirations, giving her practical, real-world experience with one of Australia's leading companies.
For Faye, the opportunity brings together many parts of her Australian experience.
“As an international student, both IDP and Medibank have been part of my journey in Australia since day one,” she said.
“Over the past two and a half years, I've been studying, working and travelling, and along the way they have given me a real sense of security.
“Whether through IELTS resources, student events like the Coogee to Bondi Walk and Mid-Autumn celebrations or simply knowing that I could rely on my health cover when I needed treatment, they've both been a constant part of my experience in Australia.”
When Faye saw the internship advertised in an IDP newsletter, she says she immediately recognised how closely it aligned with her interests and aspirations.
“When I came across this opportunity, I felt immediately drawn to it,” she said. “It felt like the perfect combination of my interests and experience in data, student engagement and partnerships.
“Being selected feels incredibly meaningful to me, and I'm excited about the chance to learn, grow and contribute, while giving back to a community that has supported my journey and helping provide that same sense of security to future international students.”
The Medibank Academy was created to address a challenge faced by many international students: gaining practical workplace experience and building professional networks while studying in a new country.
IDP’s latest Emerging Futures research has shown that employability and career outcomes are among the most important factors students consider when choosing where and what to study. While qualifications remain important, students are increasingly seeking opportunities to gain industry experience, develop workplace skills and strengthen their career prospects after graduation.
Through the Medibank Academy, IDP students can access three exclusive opportunities:
A six-month paid internship with Medibank
A 12-week mentoring program with experienced Medibank professionals
Year-round job-readiness support, including workshops, coaching, resume support and practical career tools
The initiative reflects a shared commitment from IDP and Medibank to help international students build the skills, confidence and professional experience needed to succeed in Australia's workforce.
For Faye, that next step starts in Sydney.
For future participants, the Medibank Academy aims to open the door to similar opportunities, helping more students gain the experience, networks and confidence they need to build successful careers in Australia.
Find out more about the Medibank Academy.