Discover Engineering: Kevin Sindarto

Kevin Sindarto’s impressive RMIT journey has seen him move from Indonesia to Australia, enrol in a pathway Associate Degree, work his way into a Bachelor of Engineering, gain a scholarship and now finds himself set for an exciting career.

Kevin Sindarto – Bachelor of Engineering (Civil and Infrastructure) (Honours) “RMIT has provided me with the required skills, knowledge and networks to kickstart my career as a structural engineer here in Australia.” Kevin Sindarto – Bachelor of Engineering (Civil and Infrastructure) (Honours)

“To be honest, at the start, it was quite hard and stressful as I wasn’t quite confident with my level of English and it felt like I was burdened with high expectations from everyone back home,” said Kevin.

“However, as I went through a semester, I gained support from people I met at RMIT and got introduced to the university’s many support services. This made me realise that my decision of coming here wasn’t a mistake. It made me who I am today and I can’t be more thankful of that.”

Kevin decided to move to Melbourne to study after researching various engineering courses, and discovering RMIT’s focus on practical skills and learning.

“I’ve always been fascinated by the fact that a group of dedicated engineers are able to collaborate and deliver various projects which are quite significant for the progression of society,” he said.

“Be it a giant bridge, high-rise structure, or a train station, knowing that people believe the structure won’t fail and they utilise it as part of their daily life makes you realise how cool it is to be knowledgeable in this field.

"I started studying at RMIT as I was convinced that not only theoretical knowledge is taught here, but also a set of practical skills and field practices are delivered by industry experts. And I must say, RMIT fulfilled all my expectations.” 

Taking a pathway course is a great way to get started in your field of choice, according to Kevin.

“If you’re passionate about civil engineering or engineering in general but worried whether you’ll do good during your study, I’d recommend you to start with an Associate Degree,” he said. 

“It’s an amazing pathway that gives you a year to decide which stream of engineering you want to pursue without requiring additional time. The first year comprises of core engineering subjects from different engineering streams which would definitely help you deciding which is best for you. 

“I enrolled in the program for my first two years here, and it just might be the best decision I’ve ever made. You find yourself enjoying what you’re doing, and new concepts aren’t so hard to understand anymore. Try your best to find what makes you click. If you can do that within the first year of your degree, the increasing difficulty of your course wouldn’t really bother you as you’d be driven by passion.”

"I was honoured at a scholarship program in 2019 called the 'Tertiary Scholarship Fund'. Every year they reward students with extraordinary academic performances and significant contributions to communities, so if you’re a university student and you think you fulfil those criteria, you should definitely check it out." 

RMIT’s focus on industry connections and getting a job was also an advantage for Kevin. 

“RMIT's city campus has an amazing section, popularly known as the ‘Job Shop’, and I definitely recommend you to sign up for their newsletter and check their programs regularly,” he said.  

“They have workshops on basically everything related to job search, including workshops on writing a resume, cover letter, LinkedIn profile, interviews, job opportunities, etc. There is also the chance of attaining private consultation sessions if you have any inquiries regarding job searching.”

“Outside of my current program, I was involved in the ‘International Student Placement Program’ arranged by RMIT, where I was assigned in a multidisciplinary team to help a non-profit organisation called ‘Good Cycles’. Within a month, we successfully finished the project and it was hands-down one of the best learning experiences I have had at RMIT University.”

What’s next for Kevin?

“As soon as I graduate, I’ll apply for a graduate visa to get two more years here in Australia. I might either do a PhD or look for a grad role,” he said.  

“RMIT has provided me with the required skills, knowledge and network to kickstart my career as a structural engineer here in Australia.”

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Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Luwaytini' by Mark Cleaver, Palawa.

aboriginal flag
torres strait flag

Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.