Postgraduate Coursework Student Profile
Sivy Orr
What are you studying in the Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning?
I am enrolled in the Postgraduate Diploma in Urban Planning. This semester the subjects Social Planning for Urban Diversity and Advanced Urban Planning and Design include a group project component. This means students have the opportunity to experience workplace situations and working in teams.
What did you study before commencing your studies at the University of Melbourne, and at which institution?
I come from a legal background having graduated with a law degree from South Africa. I completed the Advanced Diploma in Business Legal Practice at RMIT in 1999 and have been working in the Victorian Court system.
What interested you in coming to the University of Melbourne? What attracted you to the Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning?
I am actively involved in community planning issues in my neighbourhood. This has exposed me to the multifaceted aspects of planning and the number of professions that have an influence in the decision making process of planning matters. I was eager to gain as much knowledge in this area as possible and began researching topics in this field and attending public lectures. Academics from this Faculty frequently appeared as guest speakers at these forums. Melbourne University is renowned for its academic excellence and the expertise of these ambassadors made the choice of this university that much easier.
How are you finding your experience at the University so far? What are the highlights?
Postgraduate study is no easy feat. It is challenging balancing family and study commitments. I am pursuing an interest and that gives me great personal satisfaction. The most exciting aspect is the wonderful individuals I have had the privilege of meeting in the course. The social contact with participants from a diverse age group, backgrounds of experience and nationalities offer the ideal global village environment. The postgraduate facilities and services provided at this university are outstanding and it makes studying here unique.
What are you planning to do when you have completed your studies at Melbourne?
I wish to proceed to the Masters Degree in Urban Planning and focus on social and environmental planning.
What advice do you have for other students thinking of studying in the Faculty?
The academic and administrative staff of this faculty are very supportive and helpful. Prospective students should make every effort to get acquainted with the people and services available within the faculty. Think about the choice of subjects carefully and make time to participate in the multitude of student activities on offer at the university. Enjoy and have a fair go!