Why IT at UTS?

Choosing IT at UTS 

While at times Mel would be one of few females in her class, she sought advice from two girls in the years above who her had gone through the same experience. It was their advice and encouragement to her that kept her going. They also suggested she looks into studying IT at UTS. 

“That meant a lot,” Mel says. “They reminded me I wasn’t the only one.” 

 As Mel began exploring her path in IT, she looked for a university that matched her interests and ambitions. UTS stood out for its strong focus on technology, practical learning and real industry experience. 

"It’s a university of technology in Sydney,” she says. “That’s exactly what I wanted.”

That decision set her on a path toward discovering where she truly fit within IT and software.

Discovering IT is more than coding 

Like many students considering studying IT, Mel initially thought an IT degree meant programming, and only programming. 

But once she started at UTS, she quickly discovered just how broad the field is. From AI and systems design to games, graphics and multimedia, studying IT opened doors she hadn’t expected. It was through this exploration that she found her passion: Cybersecurity and Networking. 

“I realised programming wasn’t actually what I loved,” she says. “But networking and cybersecurity clicked for me straight away.” 

That flexibility allowed her to shape her IT career path around what genuinely interested her.

“You don’t have to have everything figured out,” she says. 

Learning that connects to the real world

One of the most exciting parts of studying an IT degree for Mel has been seeing how quickly classroom learning translates into real-world impact.

“You’ll hear about something in class, then see it in the news,” she says.

“And suddenly you understand what they’re talking about.”

This connection between theory and real-world technology highlights the value of UTS’s hands-on approach, preparing students with skills that matter in industry.

Finding your people at university 

Moving from the Central Coast to Sydney was a big step, but Mel quickly found a sense of belonging.

By getting involved in student communities like the IT Society, Engineering Society and Cybersecurity Society, she built friendships and professional networks that shaped her university experience.

From networking events to relaxed board game nights, these communities made studying IT more collaborative and rewarding.

“One of my closest friendships started at a tech board-game night,” she says. “We were just playing Uno and eating pizza.”

A strong community for women in technology

At UTS, Mel discovered a growing and supportive network of women in IT and women in technology. Through the Women in Engineering and IT Society, she connected with like-minded students, mentors and future industry peers. “It’s such a supportive environment,” she says. From social events to career-focused opportunities, the community creates space for connection, confidence and growth.

“It’s inspiring to see more women choosing a path in IT,” she says. “It’s definitely growing.”

Building confidence through studying IT

Studying IT isn’t just about technical skills — it’s about developing a mindset. Throughout her degree, Mel has built:

• Problem solving
• Adaptability 
• Curiosity 
• Confidence 

“Technology changes constantly,” she says. “You learn how to adapt and keep learning.” By focusing on her own progress and strengths, she’s grown both personally and professionally.

Shaping a furure in cybersecurity and networking

Now specialising in cybersecurity and networking, Mel is excited about where her IT degree can take her.

She’s interested in roles that combine technical expertise with leadership and strategy, potentially working toward a future as a Chief Information Security Officer.

For now, she’s focused on continuing to learn, gain experience and explore opportunities within the ever-evolving world of technology.