Meet Dhruv – Electrical Engineering student

Choosing an Engineering major

Dhruv’s journey to engineering was ignited by his curiosity to this field at a young age. “My dad is an engineer. I was always interested to learn what he did at work”. 

Whilst he was certain about studying engineering, Dhruv was unsure about which major he would pursue. However, Dhruv recalled studying an electrical subject in Year 9 as an elective. “I really enjoyed that subject and its practical element such as making circuits, and I was really looking for that hands-on approach to study when considering my major”. Dhruv also felt that Electrical Engineering was a future-focused major and would set him up for success. "Technology moves at such a rapid pace, but electricity is always at centre of technology and powers the world around us. It is crucial to so many elements of our society, and I felt Electrical Engineering would also give me a variety of career opportunities to explore in the future.”  

Dhruv also decided to study a business management degree together with his engineering degree with the hope that he would be set up for a future in management. He believed that the dual-degree approach would enhance his skill set preparing him for various roles in the future.

A hands-on learning approach

When choosing UTS for his Electronic Engineering major, Dhruv was drawn to the hands-on and practical approach on campus. “I like being challenged to think differently, and I get the freedom to do that in my engineering subjects. We also get access to some great facilities like the UTS Robotics Institute where I get to experience real-life working equipment that I wouldn’t get anywhere else”.  

In 2nd year, Dhruv worked with other engineering students for the UTS Rover Team project that saw him design rovers to be launched on the moon. “It was so cool to be a part of something space-related that combined so well with my degree. We got to use some really high-end equipment that I would have otherwise not had the chance to experience”. In his third year, Dhruv joined the UTS Aerospace Society where he took part in the Spaghetti and Space launch project that involved building a high altitude balloon that travelled 25kms into space with a plate of spaghetti. “It was such a great project and received so much attention across Australia. It felt like a fever dream!”. Having taken part in these experiences, Dhruv believes they have helped complement his skills learnt within his studies and explore different facets of engineering.  

I really love UTS’ hands-on and collaborative approach to learning. It makes so much sense, especially during excursions or when working on practical projects through the students’ clubs and societies. 

"I also appreciate the university’s willingness to employ students on campus through the Student Promotional Representatives (SPROUT) program which I am a part of where we can inspire other potential students to study degrees like Electrical Engineering that they may not have considered.”  

Industry Exposure

As a part of his Electrical Engineering major, Dhruv has had the chance to gain industry exposure and make connections through internships. “I am interning for Alstom, who work closely on the Sydney Light Rail and Sydney Metro projects. I am specifically working on the Sydney Trains project”. Working with a close team of experienced Engineers, Dhruv has received practical experience and is able to contribute to real-world projects that keep the Sydney rail network running. "I have physically contributed to the traction maintenance of the Millenium fleet commissioned in the early 2000s working with a close team of experienced engineers. I’m involved in the repairs and get the chance to work on projects that are meaningful.  

Dhruv's advice to engineering enthusiasts

Dhruv believes that engineering enthusiasts should explore their passion, and not be afraid to explore their options. 

It’s a common misconception that Electrical Engineering is very difficult and math-heavy. Don’t just rule out a major because you’ve heard that it’s difficult. If you have a passion for it and are looking for solid graduate opportunities and a community to be a part of, Electrical Engineering is a great major to pursue.

Dhruv attributes his academic journey’s success to his ability to be involved in extracurricular projects. “I would say be as productive and proactive as possible in your degree. Try as many things as possible and find your niche”.

The Electrical Engineering major is offered to undergraduate students and can be paired with an Engineering degree. 

Find out more about a degree in Electrical Engineering