For Rahma Azahra Raditya Putri, or Rahma as she prefers to be called, her journey to studying Economics at UQ has been filled with excitement, growth and discovery. Coming from Indonesia, Rahma’s story reflects the unique experience of being an international student at UQ, blending academic rigour with practical experiences that have shaped her career aspirations in finance and economics.
Why UQ?
Rahma chose UQ because of its comprehensive curriculum and diverse course offerings.
As a student with a strong interest in both Economics and Finance, UQ’s Bachelor of Economics program offered her the flexibility to explore both fields. The International and Financial Economics major has allowed her to delve into macroeconomic topics like international trade and monetary policy while also honing practical industry skills like stock valuation and economic modelling.
“The combination of academic theory and practical learning is what drew me to UQ. I’ve learned to see how interconnected economics and finance really are,” Rahma shared.
The longstanding partnership between UQ and Universitas Indonesia (UI) means students from UI can pursue a double degree program with both institutions. For Rahma, this meant she was able to visit Australia to study, and she’ll graduate with a Bachelor of Economics from Universitas Indonesia and a Bachelor of Economics from UQ in a shortened period.
A journey shaped by key experiences
From an early age, Rahma’s passion for economics was fuelled by her involvement in economics competitions and internships in investment banking and consulting. These experiences confirmed her decision to pursue a career in finance, where the fast-paced, dynamic environment constantly challenges her to grow. At UQ, that journey continued as she took part in ECON3380, a practicum course that led to an exciting placement with an investment bank in Indonesia.
“This was a game-changer for me,” Rahma recalls. “It pushed me beyond the classroom and into real-world finance. The complexities of the industry became clearer, and I quickly realised that textbook knowledge alone isn’t enough. You need adaptability and strong soft skills to succeed.”
How UQ is preparing her for the future
Rahma’s time at UQ has been instrumental in preparing her for her future career in economics and finance. Through case studies, workshops and industry collaborations, she’s gained hands-on experience that complements her academic knowledge. One standout moment for her was participating in a FINM2416 workshop in collaboration with QTC, where she and her classmates simulated the bond market.
“It was incredible to see how theory applies in real-world financial systems,” she says. “Learning tools like R Studio in ECON courses has also been crucial, helping me gain technical skills that I’ve applied during my internships.”
Memorable moments at UQ
One of the most surprising and exciting moments of Rahma’s time at UQ came when she and her friends became second runners-up in the Economics Consulting competition hosted by UQES x Deloitte - during her very first semester at UQ.
“It was unexpected but so rewarding. UQ has given me so many opportunities to test my skills and this competition was just one example of how the university encourages students to push their limits and excel.”
A sense of belonging at UQ
As an international student, Rahma found that UQ’s welcoming community played a big role in helping her feel at home.
“I definitely feel a strong sense of belonging within the UQ community,” she says. “There are so many opportunities to connect with people - from group projects to UQ Union events - and I’ve made lasting friendships that have helped me academically and personally.”
Why Rahma recommends UQ
Rahma would highly recommend UQ to other students, particularly those looking for a balance between academic rigour and real-world applications. “UQ gives you a strong foundation in theory while encouraging you to apply that knowledge in real-world settings. The vibrant community, excellent facilities and numerous opportunities for involvement make it a perfect place for personal and academic growth.”
From challenging coursework to invaluable industry experiences, Rahma’s journey at UQ has been marked by growth, learning and the exciting possibilities ahead. For any international student considering studying at UQ, Rahma’s story is a testament to the vibrant, supportive and opportunity-filled experience awaiting them at UQ.
Do you want to know more about studying and life at UQ in Australia?
