Fabio Mureddu - Mechanical Engineering (Italy)
Why did you choose to complete an Internship?
I have decided to undertake this program for two main reasons: primarily, to have a feel of what it's like to work as an engineer and have to face challenges and solve real problems. The second reason is because I wanted to gain work experience in my field while here in Australia, as I believe it to be almost essential to find employment here, especially if you have an international background.
What have you learned the most during your internship?
Other than developing a few technical skills, I have understood what it really feels like to work in a team and to have responsibilities and deadlines to meet. I have also learned that your university background is only in part relevant to your future professional life: I've seen many examples in my firm of people who majored in a particular area of engineering but ended up working in a different department. This taught me that your skills, experience and personal preferences contribute more in shaping you as a professional than your degree does.
What benefits do you feel AI contributed to your internship and time in Australia?
Australian Internships has definitely played an important role in this program: they have helped me find an internship in an area of my choice, which could be a difficult and time-consuming task if carried out without the proper experience. They have also been keeping track of my progress and are always available in case I have any doubts or perplexities.
What advice would you give future interns?
· Try to learn as much as you possibly can during your time as an intern, as the competences you'll develop will help you find employment in the future.
· Always act professionally and take this as an opportunity to discover what you like and where you'd like to be as a future professional.
· Keep a positive attitude and always be available to help anyone when they ask you.
· Keep written track of your progress as you will be given a variety of tasks and you won't be able to remember every single one of them.
What do you enjoy most about Australia?
I definitely enjoy the weather and the friendliness of people. I also like how diverse it is in terms of ethnicity and how abundant it is in nature.
From a professional point of view, I like the work culture where all employees are treated with consideration and are entitled to have a good work-life balance.
Overall, Australia offers in my opinion great career opportunities and, at the same time, the chance to travel and explore an immense continent, filled with beautiful beaches and the most unique wildlife.