Vaishali Mohanrao Haldekar

Country: India 
Degree: Master of Applied Project Management (Project Systems)
Faculty: Faculty of Arts, Business, Law and Economics

Why did you choose your degree? 

My prior studies include a Bachelor's degree in Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering and Diploma in Advanced Software development methodologies from India. After working in the IT Industry for almost four years, I understood the gap between working as an engineer and having difficulty managing projects and people. There should be a bridge between understanding people and technology. I discovered many industries work on strategy, technology and forget the people. 

The Applied Project Management (Project system) course is a professional degree for understanding project milestones and leadership skills which bridges the gap between people and technology.

Why did you choose to study at the University of Adelaide? 

After searching for world-class universities, I found that the University of Adelaide is one of the world's top-ranked University. The University of Adelaide campus situated in North Terrace, which is the heart of the city, and it grabbed my attention. Everyone used to say Adelaide is a city of festivals. I won't deny that this city has a fun and loving culture. 

While exploring my options, I was interested in a Management degree where I can utilise my Engineering knowledge, and the outcome was effortless. Finally, I enrolled in the Master of Applied Project Management (Project System).

I had no idea how my whole journey was going to be. When I landed in Adelaide, the first thing I observed was the clear sky, no pollution, greenery, diverse people and a very welcoming university experience. Adelaide is pre-planned so you can reach the city-centre in just a few minutes anywhere around the suburbs at cheap transportation rate and living cost is affordable compared to metro cities. The one who loves quiet life would fall in love with Adelaide city.

What do/did you enjoy about your degree? 

My lectures were intensive from morning 9-5 pm twice a week, which allowed plenty of time to understand the topic in depth and to engage in other social activities. At the beginning of this connected lectures and assignments, I found it very challenging, but over time, I learned to enjoy it. The assignment's structure and reading material along with class notes led me to achieve high distinction in my course.

Did you undertake a global learning experience/internship whilst studying at the University? If yes, describe your experience.

While studying, I did an internship as an Associate Project Officer, where I learned to apply project management theoretical knowledge into real-world project life. The work culture and colleagues were cooperative and friendly.

What are your career aspirations after university? (if applicable)

I want to become a good Project manager where I can apply my knowledge for a better outcome of the project involving strategy, technology and the right people.

What courses did you enjoy the most? How does your study relate to your career?

I like the 'Complex Project Management' and the 'Leadership of an Organisation' course. In the mentioned courses, I Understood what is a complex project and gained knowledge about complex systems, considered different management styles for complex projects. 

I analysed real-life complex project management case studies from multiple domains. I also acquire an understanding of linear project planning and risk assessment, contact management, planning and delivery of complex projects. The leadership of an organisation course gave the depth knowledge about the different leadership styles needed for large-scale projects and leadership approach for a better outcome. Most of the Faculty has more than 20 to 30 years of professional experience and a detailed understanding of the topic. 

At the end of my masters, I came to know that I became inclined to reading, and now I can write well in a professional way which was a milestone for me.