Industrial design

Nicole’s decision to pursue a Bachelor of Design (Industrial Design) was fueled by a love of making things and discovering what makes them tick.

“Since I was young, I would do ‘science experiments’ in the backyard, mixing anything I could find,” she reveals.

After two years of studying, she shares a major highlight of her course so far has been spending time at UC’s Workshop7. The space houses a number of technologies and equipment to help students learn and gain firsthand experience with 3D printing, laser cutting, virtual reality, robotic tools and more. This facility has allowed Nicole to apply design theories through hands-on projects to gain a deeper understanding of industrial design practices.

“Workshop7 has all the equipment and machinery we need to build, design, and create. Run by Bill Shelly (Tech Services Coordinator) and Sam Shellard (Technical Services Officer), it has been a welcoming environment for me to learn and develop my hands on and design thinking skills,” she shares.

The assistance she has received from UC and its facilities have been incredibly beneficial to Nicole, and she’s confident it’ll aid her in a successful career.

“I know that I will get all the support I need from my tutors and the workshop when beginning my career journey,” Nicole says.

A new life in Australia

Now after spending two years in Australia, Nicole has built a tight-knit community she surrounds herself with, despite being so far away from home.

“What really grounded me was finding a community to plant myself in. I found Hope Church Canberra through UC’s Market Day event and they were incredibly warm and welcoming,” Nicole shares.

Nicole has also been an active participant in the many events, exhibitions and sessions facilitated through UC to help her connect with her fellow students.

“UC has a great atmosphere with many events throughout the week and not just at the start or end of the semester. There are interactive games and art installations, midday music, and free nachos on the concourse. Overall UC does a good job at facilitating areas and activities to make their students feel a great sense of belonging,” she adds.

Studies and on-campus events aside, Nicole is making the most of Canberra’s nature reserves, surrounding mountain ranges and the great outdoors.

“Every weekend, my friends and I get to hike a different mountain or walk a different bush trail which I love to explore,” she says.

As a student without a car, Nicole was also amazed by Canberra’s public transport system. The city’s quiet neighbourhoods, shared paths and flat terrains also makes it a great place for getting around by cycling.

“Coming from a country with a developing public transport system, I was quickly impressed with how efficient the buses were and how accessible the city was,” Nicole says.

The future for Nicole

Nicole has no intentions to leave Australia. She’ll complete her degree at UC in 2024 and plans to stay in Canberra after graduation to pursue a career in design in the city. Plus, as a designated regional area for migration purposes, Nicole can enjoy extra years on a post-study work visa, to make the most of her time in Australia’s exciting industries.

Eager for an life changing experience like Nicole? Explore studying at the University of Canberra as an international student!