A flexible and future-focused education at UTS has allowed Tanushka to shape her degree around her personal interests and long-term career goals.
When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted everyday life, Tanushka saw more than just uncertainty; she saw opportunity. Watching the rapid shift to remote work and the growing demand for digital security, she recognised how critical technology, especially cybersecurity, had become.
“I did my HSC during COVID and saw how quickly the job market was changing. Suddenly, everyone was working from home. That’s when I decided to explore an IT bachelor's degree.”
A university experience built for growth
The UTS cybersecurity bachelor’s program was more than a course for Tanushka, she experienced a learning environment designed to help students thrive personally, socially, and professionally.
"Coming out of lockdown, I was ready to embrace it all. From the first year, I found a community through the UTS Cyber Security Society. It’s a student-led network that connects peers and industry leaders in a hands-on learning environment. The society has been a great way for me to meet like-minded students and build industry connections.”
Further to that, Tanushka found the UTS campus to be very open with people always around. This made it easier for her to make more friends, strengthening her networking skills.
“I’ve studied Japanese as a sub-major, which I’m really enjoying. That flexibility was a big plus for me.”
The forward-looking approach to learning was also important for Tanshuka. The emphasis on engaging on real emerging technologies helped Tanushka build skills that go beyond today’s job market to prepare her for what’s coming next. For her, it wasn’t just about learning how to code, it was about developing a versatile, industry-aligned skillset that puts her at the forefront of the evolving tech landscape.
Support and community
Outside of learning, Tanushka found strong networks of support, especially for women in engineering and tech, that helped her feel seen, supported, and encouraged. The industry component was also a huge win for her.
“For women thinking about studying IT, go for it. There’s a strong community at UTS through the Women in Engineering and IT (WiEIT) program, so you won’t feel so alone.”
Now in her final year, Tanushka reflects on her time at UTS as a launchpad; one that turned a global disruption into a personal transformation.
“I’m loving my independence, my active student life, and I’m excited for my future. I feel that my UTS cybersecurity bachelor's degree will open doors to endless opportunities for me.”
Why UTS?
Because it’s not just about learning. It’s about providing a flexible, practical, and future-focused degree that’s designed to help students turn change into opportunity.