Postgraduate Coursework Student Profile
Jim Smither
What are you studying in the Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning?
My course of study is Master of Urban Design which includes studio work, studying theories of Urban Design and research. Beyond the required subjects I wish to expand my understanding of architectural theories, sustainable development, and computer animation.
What did you study before commencing your studies at the University of Melbourne, and at which institution?
I hold three degrees from institutions in the United States: BA in Urban Studies from Roanoke College, Salem, Virginia, Master of Urban and Regional Planning from the George Washington University, Washington, DC, and Master of Landscape Architecture from the University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia.
What interested you in coming to the University of Melbourne? What attracted you to the Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning?
After studying and practiced extensively in the United States I wanted to broaden my perspective. Specifically, I desired to expand, test, and challenge my design convictions. The Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning has a strong international component. The professors I am studying under have lived worked and trained not only in Australia but also in Europe, China and the United States. When my classmates and I meet it is like a mini United Nations meeting. We have "representatives" from Australia, India, Singapore, Taiwan, Columbia, China, Vietnam, and the United States. Through this exposure to a broad range of perspectives new worlds of possibility are becoming visible.
How are you finding your experience at the University so far? What are the highlights?
The professors are excellent: highly intelligent, knowledgeable, articulate, and relevant. Further, we have had visiting professionals from the Melbourne practicing professional community comment on our design work which has been helpful grounding our studio work in reality. I have also had the opportunity to work with students from Thailand and France during a two week intensive design workshop further enriching my cultural experiences at the University of Melbourne. Finally, the City of Melbourne is fantastic: inviting, livable, active, and multicultural.
What are you planning to do when you have completed your studies at Melbourne?
I plan to return to the United States with fresh ideas I have learned here to practice Urban Design when I finish. It is my goal to work with a firm that is primarily concerned with making positive contributions to local communities.
What advice do you have for other students thinking of studying in the Faculty?
I would look at several schools and then be clear as to what I wanted. I suggest writing your scholastic and career goals down and then visiting or writing as many faculty members as possible to see if your goals are in sync with theirs. If possible talk with current students and graduates.