Hi, I’m Harshini!
I'm in my third year of a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) and Master of Engineering – Electrical Engineering. I joined the Women in Engineering Student Leaders to give advice about electrical engineering and support future students.
What or who inspired you to choose engineering?
I was inspired to choose engineering through the Women in Engineering and EAIT Ambassador Workshops I attended in high school. They inspired me to become the next generation of change and showed me how broad and rewarding a career in Engineering can be.
Why did you choose the discipline you are studying?
I chose Electrical Engineering as it is an essential part in all fields and industries. It is a versatile career pathway and has many global work opportunities.
What is one thing about university or engineering that you wished you knew earlier?
One thing about university that I wish I had known earlier is that help is always available. Attending tutorials and talking with staff and peers can really help broaden knowledge and understanding.
What made you pick engineering at the University of Queensland over other universities?
I chose to study at UQ due to its social life and facilities. There are several interactive makerspaces available for student access, including UQ Innovate, Hydraulics Labs and Electronics Labs. Furthermore, UQ has an abundance of clubs, societies and events throughout the year, such as professional networking, community events and balls.
Give us your best tip for first-year engineering students?
My best tip for first-year engineering students is to start assignments and exam revision early. The workload can really creep up on you, and by starting early, you have plenty of time to finish tasks and ask questions.
Tell us your favourite example of amazing engineering?
My favourite example of amazing engineering is the Taipei 101 Damping System. I had the opportunity to visit during NCP Taiwan Electrical Summer School, hosted by UQ and FCU, and it was incredible to see the world-renowned tuned mass damper. Since Taiwan frequently experiences natural disasters (typhoons & earthquakes), the damper acts like a pendulum and keeps the building upright.
What's your dream engineering job when you graduate?
My dream engineering job is to work at a Coastal Renewable Power Plant or to work on rockets at NASA. I would also love to work overseas and in a wide variety of other industries, such as robotics or biomedicine.
What do you hope to achieve as a WE student leader?
As a Women in Engineering Student Leader, I aim to inspire and encourage the next generation of change-makers and innovators. I hope to share the passion and love of STEM through high school workshops and inform students about both studying Engineering and potential career pathways.
