Hear from Debaprana, Master of Architecture alumni (2021), about how she made the most of her time at uni.
Meet Debaprana
“Hi, I’m Debaprana. In February of 2020, I moved to Perth from my hometown Chennai, India, to study a Master of Architecture at UWA and try new challenges.”
Why did you decide to study in Perth over other study destinations?
“In 2019, I came across UWA’s Open Day in Chennai where I got to interact with UWA’s staff and student services team along with a virtual campus tour where I had the opportunity to see UWA’s beautiful campus along the sparkling swan river. During the event all the questions and queries that I had were promptly addressed by staff which made the experience very personal and supportive!
As for the course, UWA’s Master of Architecture curriculum stood out to me due to its flexibility, covering a broad range of topics including landscape architecture, urbanism and sustainability. The opportunity to curate my own master’s – and choosing a bit of each allied design field – was particularly very attractive as I was looking to gain new design perspectives outside of my comfort zone.”
Have you had a chance to take part in any interesting opportunities?
“I had several internship opportunities thanks to the School of Design’s network which included a Design and Drafting Assistant internship with RockyBay, a Project Intern research-internship with CDP Town Planning and Urban Design, and a Materials Research Assistant with UWA’s Bio-based Materials Lab with UWA’s School of Design.”
Are you able to tell us more about the Bio-based Materials Lab (BBM Lab) at UWA?
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“During my studies, I was most excited about the BBM Lab unit, which upon completing, gave me the opportunity to join the BBM Lab team as a research assistant where the team grew and developed Mycelium (the rootlike structures of a mushroom), exploring its growth and durability as a sustainable building material.
It was fulfilling to take part in research into bio-based materials, and I learned a great deal from Associate Professor Rosangela Tenorio's extensive knowledge of sustainability (Rosangela is a co-founder of the BBM Lab!).
Overall, it was a systemic and rewarding process, with research outcomes contributing to the circular economy principle and potentially being part of the future projects at BBM Lab - it was definitely one of the highlights of my master’s!"
Is there any advice you would give to a future student considering Perth/UWA?
“I would definitely advise stepping out of your comfort zone – it’s so easy to get caught up in familiar routines and overlook opportunities amidst deadlines. However, I encourage you to make the most of your degree by building good relationships with your tutors and peers, and by getting involved in student life.
I would also advise joining student clubs that align with your interest and consider participating in on-campus events or volunteering opportunities ran by UWA’s Student Guild. This will give you a well-rounded experience from a career, social, and knowledge perspective.
Lastly, UWA’s campus is incredibly beautiful, and I highly recommend studying at one of the libraries so you can take full advantage of the welcoming environment at UWA.”
Want to know more about studying at UWA?
Visit the international students page on our website, contact our Future Students Centre by submitting an online enquiry through askUWA or chat to a current international student.
