Postgraduate Coursework Student Profile
Nivedita Vijayan
What are you studying in the Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning?
I am currently pursuing a Masters Degree in Urban Design.
What did you study before commencing your studies at the University of Melbourne, and at which institution?
I have completed my Bachelor's Degree in Architecture from the Goa College of Architecture, Goa, India.
What interested you in coming to the University of Melbourne ? What attracted you to the Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning?
While considering higher studies, The University of Melbourne was always above in my list owing to its global recognition for providing quality education and diverse exposure in the field of study. The impressive profiles of the faculty were vindicated by the good experiences of some of the alumni of UniMelb whom I was in touch with. The Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning at UniMelb attempts to achieve a global discourse on issues pertaining to the field by initiating international workshops, lectures and expertise from various countries hence providing its students an enriching academic experience.
I was extremely delighted to receive the IPCA Scholarship offer from The University of Melbourne, which was a very encouraging and generous gesture.
How are you finding your experience at the University so far? What are the highlights?
The University is a virtual arena of discourse, learning, and recreation, like a city full of opportunities, carefully provided facilities and 'happenings'. During design studios, it is a great feeling to tackle certain design issues in a room full of varied cultures and approaches, which then lead to more innovative and diverse solutions.
One of the highlights up till now for me has been the Bangkok-Melbourne-Bordeaux design symposium, which was a 2-week intensive workshop wherein we had the opportunity of working with students from Bangkok, Thailand and Bordeaux, France. The dynamic outcomes were a result of the sheer variety of thoughts and experiences, which I feel is the biggest advantage in pursuing an International Education.
What are you planning to do when you have completed your studies at Melbourne?
I would first like to gain more first-hand experience based upon the academic knowledge gained during the course so as to understand the professional and practical aspects involved. I would then like to apply my experiences in the context of my country in an attempt to contribute to the urban development process, which has already been ignited and is ablaze out in India. I feel my exposure to the global imagery of the urban design matters will help me better understand the contextual issues.
What advice do you have for other students thinking of studying in the Faculty?
The Faculty is a core of knowledge, information, experiences, and global discourse, which I feel, is a resourceful setting for any academic pursuit. Prospective students should thoroughly research their options in the variety of courses offered by the faculty so as to gain a wholesome academic experience enriched by the proficient academia, efficient infrastructure and multicultural ambiance.