Indonesian master’s student Tio Windry has gained hands-on experience and developed practical skills during his internship.
Windry has just completed a 200-hour internship at Auckland Harbour Suites as the Front Desk Specialist and Analyst, gaining experience in both operations and data analysis.
“It provided me with the opportunity to apply my industry knowledge in a real-world business environment while gaining hands-on experience in the travel industry,” says Windry.
Windry has previously worked in the tech, travel, and ecommerce industries in Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia for almost eight years. Over that time, he grew his career from an account manager to an area manager focusing on people management as well as people development.
He was interested in branching out into the business information systems area and saw that AIC offered a great applied management programme with a business information systems specialisation.
Windry says the transition from a professional career to an academic setting was a challenge, but he overcame it by leveraging all of the support systems available at AIC.
“That ranged from academic tutors to help me navigate my research, the employability team to help me with transitioning to working culture here in New Zealand, and peer study groups to help me better understand the content of my coursework.”
It’s also been a challenge juggling studies, part-time work, and his internship. He says he has developed his time management skills by setting clear priorities and staying organised.
After graduation, Windry plans to pursue a career in business information systems, digital transformation, or data-driven decision-making roles.
“I want to leverage technology to improve business efficiency and drive growth, whether through corporate leadership, consultancy, or account management. My goal is to integrate my industry experience with my academic knowledge to create meaningful business solutions.”
Windry’s advice to new students is to take full advantage of the resources available at Future Skills for guidance in navigating their academic and professional lives. He knows international students need time and guidance to adapt to a new academic environment.
“Staying proactive, engaged, and open to learning from all the available workshops provided by Future Skills will make the transition smoother,” he says.
“Lastly, don’t be shy to try new things. You can start with an internship as a great way to gain hands-on experience, so make sure to make the most of them.”
“My best advice would be to talk to others. Students might get some insights unexpectedly during a coffee meeting with their friends which might be helpful for their paper.”
“The institution’s core values, developing the whole person, fostering lifelong learning, and contributing to the community deeply align with my own beliefs.”
“The best thing about studying at AIC is the classroom environment and the interactive way of learning which allows one to explore themself.”
"My goal is to integrate my industry experience with my academic knowledge to create meaningful business solutions.”
“This isn’t just a job - it’s the New Zealand dream I hoped for when pursuing my master’s.”
“Rest days were few and far between as I balanced work at the hotel, my internship, and peer tutoring.”
"It felt like a good opportunity to try something new."
“This role represents a meaningful opportunity made possible through the support and recommendations of the AIC Employability Team.”
“Don’t be afraid to show who you are while growing in a new environment.”
“Without my tutor, I couldn't have thought of higher studies."
“Perfecting the art of welding has been one of my main goals.”
“I am so proud and captivated because I got a good job.”
