I defied my family's expectations and dropped out of uni. It was the best thing I did for my career

When Rachel dropped out of her engineering degree, it caused issues with her Asian parents. But she says she's glad she forged her own path and pursued her passion for aviation, despite her parents' opposition.

Rachel says her dropping out of her university degree was seen as an act of rebellion by her parents. Credit: Sean Davey

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Uni Blues

episode • Insight • 

Current Affairs • 

51m

episode • Insight • 

Current Affairs • 

51m

Imagine being a child whose heart races to the roar of jet engines rather than the latest pop hits.

For me, that was the soundtrack of my youth growing up near Hong Kong’s bustling Kai Tak Airport.

The whine of aircraft turbines wasn’t just noise; it was a call to a future I would have to fight to claim.

My journey from a young dreamer to a successful professional in a field that defied my family’s expectations is a testament to the transformative power of pursuing one's passion, even when it means breaking away from cultural norms.

Rachel's love of aviation started from an early age. Source: Supplied / Qantas

I resisted the pressure to conform

In many Asian families, the pressure to conform is immense, and that was true for me as the eldest daughter.

Growing up, my father’s mantra was clear: excel academically, follow a prestigious career path, and bring honour to the family.

There was little room for deviation from this script. I attended primary school in Hong Kong, where I thrived in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) and the manual arts (industrial technology and design).

But when my family moved to Australia, the focus shifted.

My family was apprehensive

My family's push towards convention meant my dream of pursuing a career in aviation was viewed with scepticism.

My parents gave me some straightforward advice. Although they preferred I study law, accounting or medicine at uni, they would accept engineering.

Learning a trade was not an option.

My passion for aviation, which had been the very heart of my childhood dreams, was relegated to a secondary concern in the eyes of my family.

I chose engineering, but feeling underwhelmed with university I decided to leave in my second year to pursue a hands-on apprenticeship, which was seen as nothing short of rebellion.

My decision to follow my passion led to a rift with my family, particularly my father, who saw it as a betrayal of their sacrifices and expectations.

Without financial support, I faced a challenging period, relying on friends' charity until I secured an apprenticeship with QANTAS.

I finally was doing something I truly loved, by having hands-on practical experience working with jet engines.

And I discovered the profound value of vocational education and training (VET).

Rachel was the Australian Vocational Student of the Year in 2014. Credit: Andrew Beveridge

I found my way through an alternative path

VET wasn’t just a detour, it was a lifeline.

I completed a Certificate IV in Aeroskills (Avionics), then a Diploma of Aeroskills (Avionics) and Diploma of Management. It provided not only hands-on experience but also a diverse set of transferable skills.

This training allowed me to pivot when faced with new challenges, such as a severe autoimmune condition that forced me to leave a physically demanding role.

My background in aviation and management opened doors to new opportunities, from international business to other technical roles.

This adaptability underscores a critical message: non-traditional pathways are not merely alternatives; they are powerful avenues for personal and professional growth.

My journey — from apprentice to award-winning Queensland Apprentice of the Year 2012 and Australian Vocational Student of the Year 2014, and then to roles in business and community work —demonstrates the incredible value of pursuing one's passion despite societal and cultural pressures.

The struggle to break free from cultural expectations was not just a personal battle but a transformative experience that reshaped my career and life.

In a world where success is often measured by conformity to traditional paths, my story serves as a reminder that the courage to forge your own way can lead to extraordinary outcomes.

As we navigate an ever-evolving job market, it's essential to recognise and support non-traditional career paths.

Embracing the diverse skills and experiences gained through vocational training and unconventional routes enriches not only individual lives but also contributes to a more dynamic and inclusive workforce.

True success, after all, lies not in adhering to prescribed norms but in pursuing one’s passion with resilience and creativity.

So here’s to those who dare to defy expectations and carve their own path.

Your journey, filled with challenges and triumphs, not only transforms your life but also inspires others to embrace their passions.

In a world that often demands conformity, let us celebrate and support those who choose to follow their own unique path to success, proving that the most unconventional routes often lead to the most extraordinary destinations.

And for more stories head to Insightful – a new podcast series from SBS, hosted by Kumi Taguchi. From sex and relationships to health, wealth, and grief Insightful offers deeper dives into the lives and first-person stories of former guests from the acclaimed TV show, Insight.

Follow Insightful on the SBS Audio App, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.