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29/11/2023 |
Student stories
Vicky’s future-focused career in STEM
Digital technology has become a fundamental part of our everyday lives, and people with careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) are leading the charge in development and innovation in an increasingly future-focused world.
With National STEM Day upon us, it’s the perfect time to shine a spotlight on someone who is enjoying a flourishing career in STEM, and learn more about their journey from university to the workforce.
Vicky is originally from Changchun, a charming city in Northeast China whose name translates to ‘long spring’ - despite the winters dropping to temperatures as low as minus 25°C!
In July 2018, Vicky made the move from China to Australia to study at University of Canberra (UC), and in 2020 graduated with a Master’s Degree of Business Informatics.
Vicky describes her move to Canberra as both new and exciting.
“Adapting to a new country and culture was a remarkable experience. As I learned more about the local way of life, I started to appreciate the unique blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and the laid-back Australian lifestyle,” she shares. “The warmth of the people in Canberra played a crucial role in turning this transition into a truly enriching experience.”
Vicky also loves the lifestyle that Canberra has to offer.
“Canberra remains one of the safest cities in the world, and allows me to reclaim my time for the activities I prioritize. With minimal time spent in traffic, I have more quality moments with my loved ones.”
Real-world projects leading to real-world careers
One of the main reasons that Vicky chose to study at UC is the university’s industry-connected approach to learning, with UC offering a wide array of industry projects and internships, and boasting a well established reputation for providing excellent student support.
Throughout Vicky’s time at UC, she has been involved in two internships which have served as important stepping stones in her career journey.
“Internships facilitate the practical application of classroom knowledge, provide opportunities to connect with industry professionals, and aid in the development of problem solving skills.”
In fact, one of Vicky’s highlights from her time studying at UC was an internship where she worked on a Virtual Private Network (VPN) project in early 2020 when both staff and students found themselves stranded in China due to COVID-19 restrictions. Vicky and her team were able to aid over 300 students and staff to gain access to essential resources for both academic and professional requirements, and provide continuous technical support.
“The project played a critical role in facilitating a seamless transition to remote work and study amid the pandemic,” she explains. “This experience enabled me to engage with diverse IT teams, and equipped me for a profession in IT support within the context of higher education institutions.”
The success of the project highlighted Vicky’s capacity to quickly grasp and adapt to new concepts, and served as a clear testament to her potential in a tech support role.
“This experience, along with my genuine passion for technology and problem-solving, solidified my aspiration to pursue a career as desktop engineer/technology specialist.”
It’s no surprise then, that one of Vicky’s industry collaborators on the project - noticing Vicky’s skills, experience, and enthusiasm - jumped at the chance to become her employer.
“When the opportunity for my current role emerged, it was evident that I was the ideal match for the position.”
A career in innovation
Vicky finds working in STEM incredibly exciting. She loves having a career that allows her to be at the forefront of innovation and problem solving - not to mention the many intellectual challenges, and opportunities to collaborate with others who are passionate about making a difference in the world.
Vicky has her sights set on becoming an expert in cybersecurity, and also sees a future in academic research.
Making the most of opportunities at UC
For international students who are interested in studying at UC, Vicky has some valuable pieces of advice:
“Take advantage of the diverse community at UC and engage with people from different backgrounds. Explore the city and its offerings, and don't be afraid to seek out academic and career opportunities, such as internships and mentorships,” she shares. “Lastly, stay open to new experiences and make the most of your time at the university, as it can truly shape your future in a positive way.”
Ready to shape your future at UC? Our friendly international team is here to discuss your goals.
