Anneshwa is a Master of Digital and Telecommunications Engineering student at ANU.

Anneshwa’s interest in engineering began at a young age. Her family owns a telecommunications business that provides the LED displays often used as traffic signage.

“I grew up in a joint family, and my uncles and aunt, mother and father, would all assemble the moving LED displays at my home.

“The integrated circuits (IC’s) came in long tubes and I would watch them soldering the entire unit together to form the displays. The concept of using those small IC’s to bring together the big unit fascinated me and I would often make elaborate science projects at home,” she said.  

Anneshwa originally comes from Ranchi, India, and completed her undergraduate degree in electronics and communication engineering.

“Engineering is problem solving in all forms, be it repairing a broken pen or sending a satellite to space. In some ways, we are all engineers and can all contribute. The best thing about this career path is to see how even a small engineering project can make such a difference to humanity.”

Coming to Australia to complete a Masters at ANU was an easy choice for Anneshwa.

“I’d learned the basics in my undergrad, but I’ve gained so much more practical knowledge of this field during my Masters. Students can explore new horizons, do multidisciplinary projects, and meet industry connections who visit campus. Courses like Professional Practice provide a bridge between university and the professional world, and give you an understanding of the ethics and behaviour in the workplace.”

She was originally interested in ANU because of its reputation. 

“ANU is the best university in Australia, and has an excellent ranking worldwide. I'm planning for a PhD as my next step, and the research here is astonishing. My interest is in the field of digital signal processing; and the extent of industry collaboration at ANU distinguishes it from other universities.

Moving from India to Australia is a big change in environment, but Anneshwa’s study experience in the nation’s capital has been very enjoyable.

“Canberra has so much to offer, from various cuisines and friendly faces, to open grounds and nearly traffic-free roads. It’s a very peaceful place to study and live. Plus there are a number of places to visit nearby, with the snowy mountains, caves and beaches all within a couple of hours drive,” she said.

Anneshwa has found that the Canberra community has been a great environment for meeting new people and making friends.

“Canberra has been very welcoming, especially for international students like me. People are very friendly and there are lots of opportunities – both in and outside the ANU – to mingle with people.

“I recently celebrated my first Dusherra, a major Indian festival, and it was as authentic as it can get. Canberra celebrates all cultures. The community welcomes you with open arms and I’ve never felt out of place,” she said. 

In her spare time, Anneshwa likes to relax and have fun, and get involved with some of the many student organisations on campus.

“The ANU Board Games Society is the best place to spend every Friday night. Board games and pizza has become my way of relaxation after a hectic week. I’m also a member of Robogals, ANU dance club, and the Indian student’s association,” she said.