Hi, my name is Mallika Mukherji and I'm from India. I studied Bachelor of Computer Science with a major in Machine Learning at The University of Queensland. I'm also a Brisbane International Student Ambassador.
Why did you choose to study in Australia and specifically at UQ?
I’d previously visited Australia as a tourist and fell in love with its stunning natural wonders and multicultural lifestyle. I believe that it is an ideal destination for a student.
I ultimately chose UQ due to its location in Brisbane and its superior reputation. This is evidenced by its global top 50 ranking, its position as a founding member of the Group of Eight and the number of university teaching awards The University has won.
I also knew that UQ have partnerships with industry-leading Australian companies and international organisations. This, combined with the unique opportunity to major in Machine Learning at an undergraduate level, convinced me to enrol at UQ.
What are your thoughts on studying in Australia and Brisbane?
A place can be mesmerizingly beautiful, but if you don't feel a sense of belonging with the people its beauty is nullified. Fortunately, Brisbane has the best of both worlds. It has the perfect combination of calm, tranquil suburbs and vibrant, lively inner-city life. I love the great outdoors and Brisbane provides stunning natural wonders.
On the other hand, Brisbane is also a cosmopolitan city with a large number of opportunities in my field of study as well as festivals to celebrate events from all over the world. I would describe living in Brisbane as a celebration of life.
Brisbane has become my home away from home – I’ve found a real sense of belonging in the diversity of this city. The welcoming, multicultural community in Brisbane helped me fit in easily and I've made friends from across the world and had the opportunity to learn about new cultures and lifestyles. Also, the amount of support offered to international students not only by the university, but also the city of Brisbane, is remarkable.
What are the best things about your program at UQ?
I've had a natural inclination towards computers since I was young. My interest in basic programming languages started when I was 10 years old.
I was really excited to have the opportunity to major in Machine Learning as part of my undergraduate degree. The program combines theory with hands-on experience, providing for a well-rounded understanding of computer technology. The program also has a flexible course structure that allows me to pursue my interests as well as enhance my degree.
I believe that the science of today is the technology of the future, and the best way to predict the future is to create it. The applications of my program span across all disciplines including science, engineering, business and commerce, creative and performing arts, and the humanities. This gives me a flexible approach with a vast variety of career outcomes.
Studying at UQ also gave me the opportunity to start my career in a top tier multinational company using artificial intelligence extensively which aligns with my personal interests.
Have you undertaken an internship, volunteer experience or UQ Employability program?
UQ has a vibrant campus life and I found that there are many ways to get involved in the friendly UQ community. I registered for the UQ Employability Award, and I truly believe that this experience has positively transformed my life at university.
I was also involved in Student-Staff Partnership Projects and volunteered as a Get Set Mentor to help new students successfully transition to university life.
As part of my internship experience, I have participated in the Shared Value Program with Practera Nano in collaboration with UQ. This involved conducting research and providing recommendations as a team in response to a client brief.
I also enjoyed getting involved as a Brisbane International Student Ambassador. There were 40 of us from over 23 different countries representing the 95,000 international students in Brisbane, and the experience has been enriching and exciting!
What advice would you give people from other countries about studying at UQ?
UQ has so much to offer, it's up to you to make the most of it! Get involved in as much as possible and when you see an opportunity, don't let it slip by.
Don’t forget that Student Central provides all the help and support you will need as an international student, so don't hesitate to reach out for help when you need it.
Do you want to know more about studying and life at UQ in Australia?
