How did you come to find Melbourne Polytechnic?
I researched the universities available in Melbourne, and I discussed my findings with my family and friends. Melbourne Polytechnic fulfilled all my requirements, and I felt the course provided value for money. The course structure consists of both theory and practical. Students are required to complete Work Integrated Learning as part of their course, which provides industry experience. Furthermore, an optional professional internship programme is offered to international students without any additional cost. As Melbourne Polytechnic has full accreditation with Engineers Australia, once we complete our degree we can apply for membership under the Engineering Technologist category. Therefore, I felt that Melbourne Polytechnic was the best choice for me.
Student life
I joined Melbourne Polytechnic last year, and within two weeks of the course, the COVID-19 pandemic hit the country. Though we were in lockdown the course continued online. Our lecturers were very supportive and they provided us with the necessary support and guidance. At Melbourne Polytechnic we meet many people from different countries. SLAM organizes activities and events that bring all of us together where we are able to make friends. Melbourne is an interesting city, with good food and many sites to see. There is a large Sri Lankan population as well, so we are able to get involved in cultural activities far away from home.
Most memorable experience
During my first semester, we studied Professional Engineering as a subject. Our final assignment was a team project where we had to design and build a structure in Queensland for tourists. Our team was selected from Melbourne Polytechnic, and we won the Engineers Without Borders Australia 'People's Choice Award 2020' for our project titled "Innovative and Sustainable Shelter for Tourists". The project aimed to support the local traditional owners of the land and attract tourists to see the beauty of Australia, especially the Cape York region of Far North Queensland. This experience changed my life.