Postgraduate Coursework Student Profile
Wu Ya Yuan
What are you studying in the Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning?
I'm doing the Master of Architecture in Melbourne University. This semester I have three subjects, which are Cross-cultural Perspective, Design Programming and Evaluation and Advanced Design Studio.
Cross-cultural Perspective is a subject about the migration of architecture and culture from one territory to another. It raises some discourses of Colonisation, Globalisation and Orientalism. Design Programming and Evaluation is a subject about the methods employed for actual design programming and the open evaluation and experiences brought to a project. Advanced Design Studio is a design studio and the main task of this semester is to design an aquarium on the Port Phillip Bay.
What did you study before commencing your studies at the University of Melbourne, and at which institution?
I have finished a five-year bachelor degree of architecture in Shanghai, China. I got the Bachelor of Architecture in Tongji University. And I also had one year and a half working experience in BODI Architects.
What interested you in coming to the University of Melbourne? What attracted you to the Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning?
Firstly, Melbourne is a nice city. It has very beautiful scene and comfortable weather. Secondly, the University of Melbourne is a world famous university and has long history. It has good reputation in China. I want to be instructed by some well-known Professors in the architecture field.
How are you finding your experience at the University so far? What are the highlights?
I get to be familiar with the method of teaching and studying in the University step by step (because it is quite different from the way I learnt in Shanghai). The professors here are all very kind and help me a lot in my study. It really eases my nervous mood about the study.
The highlight of my experience at the University so far may be the Deans Honours Awards Night on 2 April 2004. I got a Kaufman Scholarship at that night and shake hands with Professor Fincher, the Dean of the Faculty, which excited me a lot.
What are you planning to do when you have completed your studies at Melbourne?
I plan to work in a Melbourne architecture firm and learn some practical working experiences from it to see how my theoretical knowledge can be applied to practice.
What advice do you have for other students thinking of studying in the Faculty?
Study in your own way independently. You should find a way of studying which fits you well.
Develop a critical thinking. You shouldn't always accept things that professors give you. You must create your own critical thinking and raise some discourses yourself.
Contact your coordinators frequently. You may find they are very kind to help your study and don't be shy to talk with them and let them know if you are having trouble.