Where are you from, and what are you currently studying, or have you studied, and at which institution?
I’m from Coimbatore in India, and I’m currently pursuing my Master’s in Business Analytics at the University of Adelaide. Before making this exciting leap to Adelaide, I completed my M. Tech in Software Engineering at Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, and also gained valuable experience in the tech industry by working with two companies for over two years. This journey has truly shaped my passion for technology and analytics, and I’m thrilled to be here in Adelaide!
What has your timeline in Adelaide looked like?
I arrived in Adelaide in July 2023, just in time to experience the peak of Australia's beautiful winter. Right from the start, I was fortunate to receive a scholarship from the University of Adelaide, which boosted my confidence and excitement about studying here.
From the moment I stepped into the city, I felt welcomed, not just by the vibrant atmosphere and fantastic infrastructure, but also by the warmth of the people I met every day. Alongside my studies, I've been balancing a unique mix of roles: working remotely for a Web3 game development startup and working part-time as a stylist at a men's suiting company in Adelaide. This role particularly enhanced my interpersonal skills, enabling me to meet and connect with diverse people daily.
Outside work and studies, volunteering has played a huge role in my Adelaide journey. I've actively participated as an International Peer Mentor at the university, helping new students, organising events, and making sure everyone feels at home. Additionally, I’ve enjoyed serving as Treasurer for Uvagai, a Tamil Student Society, which has allowed me to forge connections not just with fellow students but also with university staff, industry professionals, local business owners, alumni, and many inspiring individuals across Adelaide.
Overall, my time here has been dynamic, fulfilling, and filled with opportunities to grow personally and professionally. It’s truly been an amazing adventure so far!
What motivated you to choose Adelaide over other Australian cities for your studies?
Adelaide stood out to me as a perfect blend of everything I was looking for in my study destination. First and foremost, the University of Adelaide's strong global reputation and their highly ranked Master’s program in Business Analytics immediately caught my eye. But beyond academics, I was drawn by Adelaide's affordability, high standard of living, and its warm, welcoming community, making it ideal for international students like me.
I also loved that Adelaide offered a great balance between urban life and natural beauty, with easy access to stunning beaches, parks, and vibrant festivals. The city's focus on innovation, growing tech ecosystem, and exciting career opportunities in analytics and technology also greatly appealed to me. All these factors combined made Adelaide not just an easy choice, but truly the best place for me to pursue my education, build connections, and grow professionally.
How did you select your course and institution, and what resources or support services have you found most helpful at your institution?
Choosing my course, Master’s in Business Analytics at the University of Adelaide, was the perfect next step for me. With my background in software engineering and industry experience, I was eager to explore data-driven decision-making further. The university’s strong global reputation and commitment to innovation strongly influenced my choice.
The university's career services greatly enriched my experience, especially through resume workshops, LinkedIn profile sessions, mock interviews, and career events like hackathons and employer visits. These resources significantly boosted my professional confidence and helped me build valuable industry connections.
Joining student societies and clubs also enhanced my sense of community and provided opportunities to grow personally and professionally. Overall, the blend of excellent academics and comprehensive career support at the University of Adelaide has shaped an incredibly rewarding journey.
Describe a moment when you felt truly at home in Adelaide.
One moment when I truly felt at home in Adelaide was simply hearing friendly greetings from complete strangers every day—people casually asking, "How ya goin'?" as you walk down the street, or cheerfully saying "Thanks, ta," and "See ya later!". These small, everyday exchanges always remind me of the kindness and warmth that surrounds me here.
Beyond that, finding a wonderful group of friends and sharing a home with them has been one of the best experiences. These friendships, built over late-night chats and shared meals, feel like bonds that will last a lifetime.
Even in my professional life, having colleagues and managers who genuinely care, listen, and offer their support beyond just managing tasks has truly made Adelaide feel like the right place for me.
If you were to take a friend on a day trip around Adelaide, where would you take them and why?
If I were taking a friend to explore Adelaide, I'd definitely want them to experience the beautiful beaches along the coast. Enjoy some wine tasting in the scenic vineyards of Barossa Valley and have fun strawberry picking in the charming town of Hahndorf, and of course, show them my favourite spots to eat in the city.
For something adventurous, we'd try surfing near Port Elliot or go hiking at Mount Lofty to catch spectacular views. I'd also take them stargazing at Big Bend, where the night sky feels endless, and end with some laid-back, late-night conversations overlooking the city lights from lookouts.
Where do you currently work, and what are your future aspirations?
I’m currently working as a Data Analyst Intern at Think Digital, where I get to dive into exciting projects that combine data with immersive technologies. Alongside this, I will continue my part-time role at the men’s suiting company in Adelaide, while also working on my final semester project as part of my Master’s.
Looking ahead, I’m eager to grow within the tech industry, continuously build on my skills, and eventually move into a leadership role. I’m also deeply passionate about innovation and have a strong interest in entrepreneurship. I hope to one day build something of my own that brings together technology, creativity, and meaningful impact.
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