Natalyn Kok - Malaysia, 15 July, 2024
Natalyn studies a Bachelor of Built Environment (Honours) at QUT, majoring in Construction Management and Quantity Surveying. She appreciates the real-world focus of the course, QUT’s industry connections and the friendly support services that eased her worries about moving from Malaysia to Brisbane to study.
Choosing built environment at QUT
I’ve grown up having a fascination for construction and buildings. Even after undertaking the Bachelor of Built Environment (Honours), it never ceases to amaze me how construction transforms vast empty lands into substantial metropolitans that provide shelter, healthcare, education, and infrastructure, and how it contributes to the overall economy of a country. My family has a background in construction, which has also encouraged me to pursue this course.
I chose QUT because the university emphasises boosting the confidence of prospective students for the real working world. As someone who prioritises study and work, I found myself drawn to QUT as it is known for its well-structured courses that prepare you for the ‘real world’. QUT's remarkable connections with the industry was another consideration, as networking and industry connections are especially crucial in the real world.
Real-world learning leads to real-world work
QUT effectively integrated the experience of study and work into its course, with plentiful connections with the industry. I am grateful to the lecturers and tutors that have diligently imparted practical knowledge, as well as the available opportunities presented to us, such as networking events or peer mentoring events that help to shape, guide and prepare us for the 'real world' that awaits us.
With readily available help, all it takes is the courage to seize the opportunities presented before us.
Thanks to the networking events and industry nights organised by QUT, I was able to secure a position in a company and will be able to experience work that is related to my current studies.
Support services
As a woman and international student undertaking a course in construction, the worries and doubts I had in myself were undeniable. Perpetual thoughts of not being able to make friends, not fitting in, and not being able to cope had my head swirling around in worry.
My fears were quelled within my first year as I managed to meet friendly and helpful people that I was able to connect well with. Coming from a different country that doesn't prioritise support services as much, I was really amazed and grateful for the range of services provided for the students and staff by QUT. I was impressed by the consideration QUT had towards the mental health of students, including the importance they placed on it as well as the wide array of services.
Not only did this service give me a sense of comfort, but it also gave me a sense of tranquillity, knowing that, no matter how stressed or helpless I might feel, help is available and I am not facing problems alone. There will be someone there to listen, help and guide me if need be.
Making connections
Leaving my home country had allowed me to peer through a lens I did not once think possible, while relishing the unique and different cultural norms and values of the work and study culture here. It also made me savour memories of home that brought on nostalgia when connecting with friends or people with similar backgrounds.
I have been involved in the QUT Malaysian Society (QUTMYSA). I've made many new friends and memories by participating in some of the activities organised by societies. I also met a lot of my friends through units that we took together and learned that because you don't always have the same units as people in your classes, you have to be intentional about maintaining friendships.
Why study at QUT
I recommend the university to others because QUT has always prioritised education for the 'real world' which is supported by its excellent and extensive network. The services and facilities provided by QUT are fulfilling, helpful and conducive to a positive study environment.
