Lucas De Yuan Phang
Lucas De Yuan Phang
- Student type: International
- Degree type: Degree
- Year commenced: 2018
- Degree(s): Bachelor of Computer Science
- Minor(s): Games development
- Specialisation: Advanced Computer Science
Hi, I'm Lucas. I spent my first year of uni at Monash Malaysia, getting a world-class education close to home. I then travelled 6,364 km to the "land down under" to explore exciting new opportunities at Monash's Clayton campus, and to complete my Bachelor of Computer Science.
As part of Monash IT, I've collaborated with many talented students to bring technological ideas to life. Together we've developed all sorts of innovations, including a slack bot that reminds you to drink water and a surveillance system that ensures workers wear proper safety equipment on a construction site.
Many people think maths skills are critical for computer science, but the need for them varies widely across its many disciplines. Personally, I've found that logical thinking, creative problem-solving and adaptability play a bigger role in succeeding in this field.
I was lucky enough to receive a Monash High Achiever Award in my first year and a Student Compassionate and Hardship Package in my final year (when COVID-19 hit and my family's income was temporarily cut off). The Faculty of IT also awarded me a Winter Research Scholarship, giving me an opportunity to work with highly regarded academics on their research projects.
My tech internship at Grab, a multinational ride-hailing company, was another highlight. I'd studied web development, mobile apps, games development and artificial intelligence at Monash and that definitely gave me an edge. Grab opened my eyes to how businesses use technology to solve problems.
And I got to meet some incredibly talented and inspiring individuals.
Studying overseas has given me independence and freedom, as well as a strong sense of self. If you're thinking about doing a Bachelor of Computer Science at Monash, think of it as a haven for knowledge and growth. My time here has been truly transformative.