October 12, 2026
Meet Sydney CBD Campus UOW student, Dane De los Santos
Student Spotlight: Dane De los Santos
Dane’s journey to UOW
Originally from Cagayan in the northern Philippines, Dane Rollan A. De los Santos is currently studying a Master of Project Management at UOW after completing a Master of Business Analytics with a Distinction average. He is also a mentor in the Sydney Business School Peer Mentoring Network and works as a Student Casual at the Sydney CBD Campus. Before coming to Australia, Dane built a career as a Certified Public Accountant across audit, accounting, finance and business advisory, with experience in banking, retail, manufacturing and including different countries like Papua New Guinea. Outside work and study, he enjoys photography, exploring Sydney, visiting cafés and spending time outdoors.
What inspired his study journey and choice of UOW
Dane returned to university because he wanted to keep learning in a world increasingly shaped by data, technology and innovation. His curiosity about how data transforms business decisions led him to Business Analytics, while his interest in turning ideas into action inspired him to continue with Project Management. He said UOW felt like the right fit because of its strong reputation, practical learning environment and welcoming community.
Growing by stepping outside his comfort zone
Moving to Australia meant leaving behind a successful career, family and the familiarity of home. Dane shared that the experience taught him resilience, adaptability and confidence. Through group projects, campus activities and networking opportunities, he became more comfortable connecting with people from different cultures and discovered strengths he did not know he had.
A proud moment at UOW
One of Dane’s proudest moments was speaking to new international students during orientation. Drawing on his own experience, he shared advice about settling into Australia, navigating campus and using university support services. He found it especially rewarding when students later approached him for advice or simply to say hello.
Staying organised and maintaining balance
Dane stays organised by planning ahead and using an online calendar that synchronises across his devices. He also uses reminders to keep track of classes, deadlines and work commitments. To maintain balance, he makes time for photography, walks, jogging, nature and quiet moments around Sydney. He said these activities help him slow down, recharge and keep perspective.
Looking ahead to his future career
Looking ahead, Dane hopes to use the knowledge and experience gained at UOW to create meaningful impact, whether by leading change, solving complex business challenges or mentoring future professionals. He believes UOW has given him more than a qualification by strengthening his confidence, broadening his perspective and creating connections that will continue to support him after graduation.
Advice he would give his first-day self
If he could return to his first day at UOW, Dane said he would tell himself to say yes to more opportunities and not be afraid to put himself out there. He would also remind himself that growth takes time, setbacks are part of the journey and some of the most valuable experiences happen outside the classroom.
A message to the UOW community
Dane expressed his gratitude to UOW staff, students and everyone who contributes to the university community. With a smile, he reflected that university is about more than earning a degree; it is also about the people we meet, the experiences we share and the impact we have on one another. His message to students is to enjoy the journey, celebrate the small wins and make the most of the opportunities around them.