Postgraduate Coursework Student Profile
Ben Zagami
What are you studying in the Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning?
This year I have begun a Postgraduate Diploma in Urban Planning. The Diploma involves one year of coursework and this semester I am completing Planning Law, Transport and Land Use Planning, Planning for Shopping and Retailing and Computer-Aided Policymaking. The on-campus subjects have a lot to offer and I would recommend each one of them to prospective students.
What did you study before commencing your studies at the University of Melbourne, and at which institution?
I come from a business background having completed my Bachelor of Commerce at Deakin University in 2004. Throughout this degree I gained planning work experience through my father's town planning firm.
What interested you in coming to the University of Melbourne? What attracted you to the Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning?
The University of Melbourne is not only renowned for its excellence but I found actually delivers it. From the day I enrolled, to the job function they held for students recently, each student at the university is valued. The quality of education is second-to-none and administrators and academics alike are approachable and helpful. The faculty in particular offered a specialization in planning that I was looking for. After completing a three year undergraduate degree, I was then looking for an opportunity to spend a year completing only advanced subjects in the field, and Melbourne has been a great choice.
How are you finding your experience at the University so far? What are the highlights?
My experience at Melbourne has been extremely exciting and very busy. Having friends from a number of faculties, I was involved in various o'week activities that were great to meet new people. The subjects this semester are taught with such passion that makes study so much more interesting. This has in turn allowed me to make the decision to pursue a career in these fields.
What are you planning to do when you have completed your studies at Melbourne?
Having hopefully received a part-time job this year, I would like to move to full time work once this degree is completed (with a bit of luck) in November. The University of Melbourne would be my first choice when and if I decide to do my Masters at some stage of my life.
What advice do you have for other students thinking of studying in the Faculty?
The academics and subjects taught in this faculty are first class. I would highly recommend this Postgraduate Diploma for anyone seriously considering or just interested in Urban Planning as a profession. This Diploma has so much to offer, it is really only limited by what you as a student are willing to put in.