Taking inspiration from a Year 9 electrical elective, Dhruv Johri chose to major in Electrical Engineering to future-proof his career opportunities with practical and hands-on learning, and contribute to our changing world.
Dhruv's journey to engineering was sparked by a childhood curiosity.
“My dad is an engineer. I was always interested in learning what he did at work,” he says.
Although certain about studying engineering, Dhruv was unsure about which major to pursue until he recalled an electrical elective in Year 9.
“I really enjoyed that subject and its practical elements, like making circuits. I was looking for that hands-on approach in my studies.”
Dhruv also felt that Electrical Engineering was a future-focused major that would open many career opportunities.
“Technology moves at such a rapid pace, but electricity is always at the centre of technology and powers the world around us. It is crucial to so many elements of our society.”
Dhruv decided to study a business management degree alongside his engineering degree, aiming to prepare for future management roles. He believed a double degree would enhance his skill set for various career paths.
“Be as productive and proactive as possible in your degree. Try as many things as possible and find your niche.”
Dhruv Johri
Electrical Engineering and Business
A practical learning approach
When choosing UTS for his Electrical Engineering major, Dhruv was drawn to the university's practical and hands-on approach.
“I like being challenged to think differently, and I get the freedom to do that in my engineering subjects. We also have access to great facilities like the UTS Robotics Institute, where I experience real-life working equipment that I wouldn’t get anywhere else.”
In his second year, Dhruv worked with other engineering students on the UTS Rover Team project, designing rovers for a lunar mission.
“It was so cool to be part of something space-related that combined so well with my degree. We used high-end equipment I wouldn’t have otherwise had the chance to experience.”
In his third year, he joined the UTS Aerospace Society and took part in the Spaghetti and Space launch project, sending a high-altitude balloon 25km 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.”
Dhruv believes these experiences have complemented his studies and allowed him to explore different facets of engineering.
“I also appreciate the university’s willingness to employ students on campus through the Student Promotional Representatives (SPROUT) program, which I am part of. We inspire potential students to study degrees like Electrical Engineering that they may not have considered.”
“I really love UTS’s hands-on and collaborative approach to learning. It makes so much sense, especially during excursions or when working on practical projects through the student clubs and societies.”
Industry exposure
As part of his Electrical Engineering major, Dhruv has gained valuable industry exposure through internships.
“I am interning for Alstom, working closely on the Sydney Light Rail and Sydney Metro projects, specifically on the Sydney Trains project.”
Working with a team of experienced engineers, Dhruv has received practical experience and contributed to real-world projects that keep the Sydney rail network running.
“I have physically contributed to the traction maintenance of the Millennium fleet, commissioned in the early 2000s. I’m involved in repairs and get the chance to work on meaningful projects.”
Dhruv's advice to engineering enthusiasts
Dhruv believes that engineering enthusiasts should explore their passion and not be afraid to consider different options.
“It’s a common misconception that Electrical Engineering is very difficult and maths heavy. Don’t just rule out a major because you’ve heard it’s difficult. If you have a passion for it and are looking for solid graduate opportunities and a community to be part of, Electrical Engineering is a great major to pursue.”
Dhruv attributes his academic success to his involvement in extracurricular projects. “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.
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