A Computer Science Graduate's Life in Perth

Hi! My name is Henry, and I'm originally from Vietnam. I have always been deeply curious about how things work, especially in the world of technology. My passion for problem-solving and innovation set me on a journey that took me from my home country to Perth, to pursue my Bachelor of Computer Science majoring in Software Engineering at Edith Cowan University (ECU). I graduated in 2022 and am now working as a Software Engineering Consultant at IBM. 

Perth stood out to me for several compelling reasons. First, its quality education. ECU's Computer Science program, with its practical and hands-on approach, aligned perfectly with my career aspirations. I was drawn to its reputation for equipping students with industry-relevant skills. 

Secondly, the lifestyle and community. The city offers a balanced lifestyle, combining the amenities of a metropolitan area with a laid-back vibe. This balance allowed me to focus on my studies and personal growth while also enjoying the occasional weekend getaway to explore the region. 

Perth's multicultural environment not only made me feel welcome but also gave me opportunities to improve my language and communication skills, which are crucial for both personal and professional growth.

And I can't forget about Perth's breathtaking skyline, which makes living and working here all the more enjoyable. 

In my second and third years of study at ECU, I had the opportunity to intern at several companies, including IBM. This internship proved to be a major career-defining moment for me, giving me hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies that allowed me to contribute to impactful projects early in my career. 

After completing my studies, I seamlessly transitioned into a graduate role and soon after into a full-time position as a Software Engineering Consultant at IBM. Since then, I’ve been fortunate to work on exciting projects that solve real-world problems, continuously growing as a professional. My journey has been shaped by a commitment to learning, adapting, and making meaningful contributions through technology.

One of the highlights of my time at ECU was joining the Student Ambassador Program. I had the opportunity to run programming workshops for high school students, sharing my knowledge and passion for computer science with the next generation of learners. It was a fun and fulfilling experience that not only allowed me to give back but also strengthened my own understanding of core programming concepts. 

Academically, I was fortunate to be recognised among the top-performing students at my university, ranking in the top 100 out of 30,000 and earning scholarships that supported my studies. These achievements reflected my dedication to learning and my drive to push myself beyond the classroom.

Looking back, if I could tell my graduate self one piece of career advice, it would be

You can't connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards.

This quote reminds me that things eventually work out as they should. It’s about taking every step forward with hope and purpose, trusting the journey, and embracing the process. I hope everyone approaches each step with positivity and joy, knowing that the connections will reveal themselves in time.

If you're thinking of studying in Perth, go for it! Perth may be less well-known compared to some other Australian cities, but it offers a strong sense of community and ample opportunities for professional growth.

The universities here, including ECU, are well-recognized, and the relaxed lifestyle allows you to truly focus on your studies and personal development.

Plus, there’s plenty of part-time work and networking events that can help kickstart your career.