Road to success

Weerasinghalage Kaushalya (Kaushi) Perera proves pathways programs are an ideal bridge to university study.

The Sri Lankan born student began her Monash journey in February 2007 at Monash College, Clayton where she completed an engineering diploma.

She is now entering her second year of a civil engineering degree at Monash University.

Kaushi said Monash College provided her with a great starting point, helping her gain the necessary knowledge and confidence to transition successfully into university life.

"The teachers at Monash College are such wonderful, passionate and inspiring people, they were very helpful and always there for me in times of need," Kaushi said.

"The Monash College Diploma was equivalent to the first year of my university degree not only did it provide an insight into different engineering fields, it also saved me a considerable amount of study time."

Her latest achievement is being selected for the Faculty of Engineering's Leadership in a Technological Environment Program, a unique non-award program designed to produce engineering leaders of the future.

Kaushi said when she first heard about the program, it sounded like a great opportunity to further develop her leadership skills.

"It challenges and extends students, providing them with a unique opportunity to acquire skills and learn about leadership outside the formal classroom," Kaushi said.

"I hope the experience will help me develop my individual leadership style and provide opportunities to network with industry leaders."

When researching universities across the world, Kaushi chose Monash because of its academic success, reputation in the engineering industry and the facilities offered for students.

"Monash has a reputation as a leading research and teaching institution and I am glad to be a part of it," Kaushi said.