International study (Issue 38, 2010)
Priyanka Thopte enjoyed every moment at La Trobe
After completing a degree in engineering in India, Priyanka worked as a business analyst and has fond memories from working along an inspiring management team and acquiring leadership skills. This experience took her to the next step in her career, when she realised she needed further education to understand the bigger picture and to be able to think the way industry leaders do.
One of Priyanka’s friends was already studying at La Trobe and after doing some research and enquiring, this double degree appeared to be the most suitable choice for her career plans. And before you know it, Priyanka was in Australia.
‘The adjustment period was a rollercoaster ride for me as this was the first time I was away from the cocoon life I had in India; but I was excited at the new environment and freedom and new culture I was eager to embrace. Initially there were a few bumps only because this was a new adventure for me, but soon I realised that this was the place where I really wanted to be,’ recalls Priyanka.
One thing Priyanka didn’t expect was to make some lifetime friends and to become so attached to this place.
‘I must say I have enjoyed every moment of my life in Melbourne and it would be impossible to pick one memorable moment. But one thing I will always treasure is meeting and studying with people form diverse backgrounds and cultures, something which wouldn’t have been possible back home in India,’ adds Priyanka.
Her course brought her the mix of theory and practice that she was looking for.
‘The numerous lab sessions, which were conducted as a part of the coursework, were a direct implementation of theory studied during lectures, and they added to my learning curve. In the management course, in one of the HR classes, we had a team building exercise which helped me discover the industry role-player in me and also helped me discover the how to utilise this in my career,’ she explains.
‘I had working professionals as classmates who shared their industry experience during the classroom discussions, which enhanced my professional skills. Having to give presentations as part of the management side of my course, it made me more confident and qualified to take on corporate responsibilities and ready to embrace the professional world and embark ahead on an exciting career path,’ adds Priyanka.