By Michelle Fortune - Indonesia, 4 June, 2026
What appealed to me about QUT were their various industry partners, strong networking opportunities and practical hands-on learning. Since one of my majors is Industrial Design, these factors really influenced my decision.
Expanding my career options
I am pursuing a double degree in Bachelor of Business and Bachelor of Design. I chose Industrial Design as my major because it's interesting and aligns with my passion and the career I'm pursuing. I selected business as my second degree because I feel it would complement my design knowledge well and broaden my understanding of the two fields of study. This would also expand my career options, whether it be working in corporate environment, a firm, or even pursuing entrepreneurship.
Double degree-double the opportunities
Initially, I was only going to pursue a single degree, but when I found out that QUT Business School had triple accreditation, I realised that studying business would complement my design degree well. Pursuing a double degree also provides me with more opportunities and pathways that I could explore in the future. I really enjoy studying two degrees because you never get bored, and there is so much new material to learn. Studying a double degree offers me more variety in what I study and the knowledge I acquire. I find that many of the concepts and ideas I learn in one unit overlap or are related to my other degree, which is great.
Testing my design skills
I had the opportunity to experience most of the Industrial Design studio units which allowed me to work hands-on with various tools and manufacturing methods such as 3D printing, laser cutting, vinyl printing and so much more that were available in QUT's workshops to create high-end prototypes and models. I also learnt about sketching, aesthetics and CMF for industrial design, the importance of user interaction, holistic sustainability and systems thinking when it comes to being an aspiring Industrial designer. These experiences helped me build my interest and passion in creating. Additionally, I had the opportunity to also intern with the BMW + QUT Design Academy which I would consider as a milestone in my journey as an Industrial Design Student. Looking back, I have improved tremendously on my design skills thanks to the tutors who were all incredibly supportive and easy to get along with, which made my learning experience even more memorable.
Real world capstone projects
The Bachelor of Business capstone project provided a simulation of what it would be like to work on a project as a consultant. It covered topics relevant to graduating students, such as delivering a strong pitch, interview skills, and collaborating within a diverse team. We didn’t just receive theories through lectures; we were able to engage in tutorials and apply what we learned through the unit’s assignments. The knowledge and experience I gained from this unit are skills I can draw on when working on real projects.
The project purposefully mixed students from different disciplines. Although this was challenging at first, it helped broaden the team’s perspective and reflected real-world scenarios, where you often work with unfamiliar faces from varied backgrounds. Another aspect that felt particularly authentic was the final pitch, which was designed to mimic the atmosphere of presenting to an important client or stakeholder. While nerve-racking at first, it ultimately proved to be a valuable and rewarding experience.
Developing skills for my future career
When preparing for the final project pitch, there were times when we felt ahead and times when we felt behind. It wasn’t as linear as some business assignments I’ve completed in the past, which made it feel realistic, projects often encounter unexpected bumps along the way. Being adaptable and quick to implement changes is therefore essential, and these are skills I developed through the capstone project. I’m confident they will be invaluable in my future career.
The project may seem intimidating initially, but it is a great experience that allows you to explore and practise a variety of important topics and skills that will come in handy for any QUT business student in their future career. Additionally, you get to work with actual clients and their projects, which makes the experience exciting and rewarding.
Settling into university
It was daunting but exciting to say the least, not knowing anyone or what to do. However, through the QUT's student clubs and Welcome week events, I have come to meet a huge variety of new friends, some of which I have come to really trust and rely on. When first arrived, I utilised QUT's airport service and have reached out to HiQ multiple times to solve various enquiries, which has been a fantastic help.
Being part of the QUT community
I was an executive in QUT's Indonesian student association club, and this gave me the chance to meet friends whom I grew close with and gave me the comfort of being back home. I also have the opportunity to host events and connect with other people from my home country. I also joined the 180-Degree Consulting which has given me an insight into consulting, and I would occasionally attend events from other clubs too. Aside from this, I also had the opportunity to be a student success partner in QUT which gave me the chance to give back to the student community by assisting various students with any study or career concerns they may have throughout uni. This was one of the most fulfilling experiences I've had throughout uni so far.
Studying in Brisbane
To me, Brisbane is the sweet spot in the middle. I like that it's not too crowded but not too empty either. The city isn't too fast paced and is more laid back and the weather here is very pleasant. The public transport here is very convenient, I enjoy taking the ferry especially during the afternoon or later hours mainly because you get to see a better view of the city. When I’m not studying, I like to go out with friends, explore the city and visit places such as the museum, parks and different suburbs. When I want a more relaxed weekend, I would simply pick a park to go to and enjoy my time, reading, sketching or even a simple pre-packed meal.
Study a Bachelor of Business/Bachelor of Design like Michelle
