Student name: Loy, Pei Yun (Alicia)

Age: 23

Country of origin: Malaysia

Student program: Bachelor of Construction Management

Why did you choose to study in Newcastle:
‘The tuition fee scholarship was the main reason for choosing to study in Newcastle. The second reason is the recommendation from my friend – that Newcastle is a nice, quiet city with beautiful beaches, and that it has a peaceful environment for study. I don’t really like city life. Furthermore, in my opinion, the University of Newcastle is not commercialised. The University offers a lot of problem-solving and planning courses which are really useful for my degree.’

The Best Things:
‘Problem-solving/problem-based learning, planning and management skills to assist me with my projects – these are the best things about my program. Likewise, there are no exams in my Construction Management program!’

Career:
‘I did Quantity Surveying back in Malaysia and with my Construction Management studies, by the time I finish my degree, I will not only be a Quantity Surveyor but also a Project Manager as well. The CM program provides me with the skills I will need in the workforce, ie, technical and people management skills.’

Newcastle Life:
‘I enjoy the Newcastle weather the most. Newcastle has a quiet lifestyle and is peaceful. The people in Newcastle are very nice and friendly.’

Support:
‘My lecturers are very helpful. If I have questions, I can talk to them by email and face-to-face especially with my assignments. Student Services assist me with my visa enquiries, requests for directions, etc. The ‘Bonus’ facility of Auchmuty Library (where a book from another University is transferred to Auchmuty Library upon a student’s request) is great. The Forum (Sports and Aquatic Centre) facilities are also great and I use these all the time.’

My Advice:
‘I will advise students about Newcastle’s wonderful lifestyle and cheaper cost of living. As for the Construction Management program, I will tell prospective students that the program delivery is much organised, the program has a good structure (courses are delivered with continuity) and the students have to do most of group work and presentations. The group work helps to build team work in the process and foster lifelong friendships as well among the students.’