Why did you choose Monash?

I chose Monash because of the IBL program which I thought would be very beneficial to my career. I also liked the culture and people at Monash when I went to the open day in year 12.

What attracted you to IT?

I was attracted to IT because I wanted to learn how to make software since it’s something every single person and industry uses. I also chose IT because I think it’s an industry with lots of scope if you’re motivated.

What made you choose the specialisation/major you’re studying?

I chose software engineering because it’s a technical degree, which appeals to my interests. The fact that we have the option to do a 6 month paid internship (IBL) also made me chose this specific degree.

Tell us about what you’re studying – What is it? What does it involve? What do you actually do?

I’m studying software engineering, it’s essentially programming and making software and applying engineering principles to the software development process so you’re not just writing code but writing large, structured programs.

What is your favourite thing about the field you’re studying?

Software engineering appeals to me as I feel that it provides me with the challenges and areas for opportunity and growth that I seek in my career. I have always loved technology and creating software, and this course provides me with the means to keep learning what I love, and constantly improve my skills. It also opens opportunities to meet new people, and learn about areas that I otherwise wouldn’t have known about. This is done through taking subjects that are sometimes not entirely related to coding software.

Which IT facility are you most impressed with and why?

I like the MUSE room the best, it’s good space for software engineering students to work.

Apart from study, what else are you involved in both at Monash and off campus? (Paid work, sport, clubs, hobbies etc)?

I work at an IT consulting company, I was able to get a grad position after completing IBL and get to work part time while I finish off my final year.

What has been the highlight of your course so far?

The highlight of my course so far has been IBL. It is 6 months of paid full time work. It’s a lot of fun and you learn so much.

What is the best thing about being a student at Monash?

The best part of being a Monash student is the wide variety of societies on campus, there is a club or society for almost any interest area.

What advice do you have for prospective students starting uni next year?

I would advise students to get involved in Monash uni societies and activities. Particularly start looking into going on exchange early on, because it can be a long process.

What do you hope to do after graduating?

I have a graduate job, so I hope to continue on with that and do some more travelling.

Is there anything else interesting about yourself or about your study that you would like to share with prospective students? For example, have you taken part in an overseas exchange or study abroad and/or have you worked on any interesting projects as part of your course?

An interesting part of software engineering was IBL. I am also going to Italy to study a unit ‘Creative Computing’ which is run for 3 weeks. Monash helps with paying for it by providing scholarships and travel insurance.