Xiaoman (Essie) Ma

A mind open to opportunities

When Essie Ma (BEng(MechEng) 2018) came to Monash, her career could have taken her in any direction, but she found herself attracted by the scope of mechanical engineering. She recognised its great potential for future employment, thanks to the increasing demand for graduates in automation engineering, machine manufacturing and other related industries.

“Civil engineering focuses on designing and building large infrastructure. Electrical engineering focuses on operating and maintaining the internal components of electronic devices,” explains Essie. “But mechanical engineering involves the design, production and operation of virtually all the machinery we encounter in our everyday lives.”

Last summer, Essie spent a few months as a human resources intern in the Department of Financial Services at Falcon Talent in Beijing. And the summer before, she interned in the Department of Product Design at Quest Payment Systems in Melbourne. These opportunities expanded her skillset, as well as offered insight into day-to-day company operations.

While at uni, Essie divided her time in various ways. A few years ago, she and her friends set up a society for Chinese students pursuing Engineering at Monash. “We organised a welcome party, a group barbeque/hotpot and other outdoor activities,” she reports. “Additionally, I enjoyed tutoring high school students in VCE maths and working part-time in a small family restaurant.”

Now that she has graduated, Essie would like to apply her problem-solving and teamwork skills to the business world, preferably in a small-to-medium-sized company where she can gain plenty of hands-on experience. She imagines one day she might join a strategy consulting firm.

“I’m also into educating young teenagers. I believe each kid is unique, with the potential to work in various fields,” shares Essie. “A school teacher can motivate students in a way that can make a real difference to their lives.”

Based on what she has discovered for herself, Essie advises, “Look for an internship or work experience not only in engineering, but in other industries that interest you. Do what you want to do – not what others think you should do. That’s the key to unleashing your full potential.”

She adds, “Make a plan for your future career, but be willing to amend that plan as you develop. Always be prepared for new challenges. And step out of your comfort zone. Opportunities favour an open mind.”