Alan's virtual internship story

Overseas internship: Engineering Internship
Swinburne course: Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)

Alan was awarded a New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant for his virtual internship through Swinburne Abroad.
 

Alan completed his virtual internship in the world of product design in China through Pagoda Projects without even leaving Australia.

Before my virtual internship, I was initially doubting whether it would have been as worthwhile as an upfront experience. There was a lot of competition in local placement due to COVID-19 and I wasn't keen on interacting solely online with my employers.

Since I hesitantly saw no other options, I sought advice from my professional experience conveyor who passed me onto Swinburne Abroad. As staff from Swinburne explained the program, I gradually became interested in the potential cross-continental experience and the chance to show my capability of working remotely.

The virtual experience provider Pagoda Projects elaborated on the fantastic side activities such as language classes, cultural mentoring and interactive webinars that would go along with the placement. Intrigued, I decided to accept the opportunity and was helpfully guided by both Swinburne Abroad and Pagoda Projects in obtaining a position.

For my internship, my role revolved around product design and innovation. I was primarily focused on producing 3D model parts using Creo Parametric referring to 2D drawings from a bill of materials. This was an effective way for me to understand company standards and develop a professional attitude in design.

Additionally, I received a challenge to modernise a food kiosk and optimise its freezer. It forced me to be observant in providing improvements to a product that had been already heavily revised by engineers.

Besides the placement, I was always excited to get involved in language classes to practise Chinese with other program candidates, learn about Chinese culture from my cultural mentor and participate in events to understand the engineering industry in China.

As a result of this experience, I am further inclined to pursue mechanical product design. I am now doing related work as a student volunteer in Swinburne's Formula Society of Automotive Engineers (FSAE). Highly recommend this virtual internship program!