Prianka Indla

By taking the leap into the unknown if gives you the chance to learn and make so many new friends.

 

What do you study and what year are you in?
Bachelor of Engineering (Mechatronics) / Bachelor of Computer Science (Machine Learning), third year.

Who or what made you choose to study this?
I have been fascinated with robotics and AI since senior school. When I enrolled in my degree, I found the perfect majors that allowed me to pursue a career in the robotics field. My mechatronics specialisation provides me with knowledge in the mechanical, electrical and software field which is crucial for creating the hardware aspect of robots. 
My computer science degree with a major in machine learning will provide me with knowledge in Artificial Intelligence. With skills that I will accumulate from my dual degree, I hope to integrate machine learning modules into hardware structures.

Why did you choose to study at UQ?
I chose engineering at UQ for a number of reasons. Being a member of the thriving engineering club, EUS, has allowed to meet like-minded people, build my networking skills and be exposed to the industry. In addition, having the chance to take part in a global experience that is integrated into my degree is so exciting. The fact that my degree does not get longer because I participate in this program is very calming. Finally, I am grateful for the state of the art facilities that are so unique and accessible at UQ. 

What do you love most about your degree?
I love how my degree incorporates inventing, designing, building and evaluating to produce the optimum solution to a problem. It is one of the most diverse fields covering renewable energy to medicine. Even if you are interested in something niche there is a place for you in engineering. The most exciting part of engineering for me is that I can go into any field not just stay in the EAIT sector, travel with world and have new projects everyday because of how flexible the field is.

What’s been your favourite course so far and why?
My favourite course so far is CSSE1001 because it taught me how coding works in the real world like how to use GitHub. It was eye opening as it showed me all the different possibilities coding has.
If you could give one piece of advice to someone considering studying at UQ, what would that be?
My biggest advice for first-year engineering student is to get involved. You’ve probably been told this so many times before but I can tell you it’s worth it. By taking the leap into the unknown if gives you the chance to learn and make so many new friends. 
In my first year I joined every club that excited me including the UQ Cheer and Dance team. I had never been a cheerleader or dancer before but nevertheless we won Cheer Nationals last year! I will cherish the memories and friends that came out of this wonderful experience. Reflecting back I realised none of it would have been possible if I didn’t put myself out there.

Have you participated in any internships or work? If so tell us a bit about it, what did you enjoy most about the experience?
I have not participated in any internships so far but I will be going to Anglo American in July for work experience.

What do you hope to do when you graduate?
I am not entirely sure what my dream job will look like and I think that’s okay. I definitely see myself in the Machine Learning sector working on projects like Chat GPT. I would also love to be a leader and go into a management role. I believe my technical skills mixed with my interpersonal skills would allow me to build the bridge between the technical side of a software project and the business side. 

Are you a member of any student societies or participate in extracurricular activities? Tell us a bit about it. 
I am a member of many societies. I am the media officer for EUS Connect, the Engineering Undergraduate Society for First Years. I really enjoy my role in the club as I get to market and run events. I also am a part of the UQ Cheer and Dance team and last year we won Nationals.

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Prianka Indla