From business internships to industry experience, CJ is making the most of his opportunities at university.
"Don’t let a low ATAR score stop you from chasing your dreams. There’s more than one way to get to your destination". Chisanga Joshua Chanda (CJ), Master of Business Information Technology
Chisanga Joshua (CJ) chose RMIT University because he wanted to learn from industry experts in Business and IT. After studying a Bachelor of Business in the USA, CJ had identified a lack of expertise in his field and moved to Melbourne to expand his knowledge.
“During my Bachelor of Business in the USA I did two internships working on digital transformation projects and I noticed there was a lack of personnel with the right expertise" says CJ.
"The projects weren’t managed efficiently and project managers lacked expertise in digital transformation and in how Business and IT can meet. That greatly influenced my decision to pick RMIT to learn more about the convergence of Business and IT because it’s the only university to offer the program at a high level with industry experts for lecturers.”
Working on industry projects in his postgraduate study at RMIT has been a highlight for CJ and has helped to prepare him for the future.
“The experience of collaborating with small teams on real-life scenarios and industry case studies helped me understand how important emotional intelligence is in the workplace. Industry projects have their way of bringing out the best and the worst in people and that all depends on how you work together as a team.
“Looking back on my time in high school I wish I’d learned a new language. Speaking multiple languages expands your network beyond your own language circle and teaches you more about working with and learning from other cultures. Being able to solve problems at a high level and having good communication are important skills in business.
“My advice to all high school students is not to let a low ATAR score stop you from chasing your dreams. There’s more than one way to get to your destination.”
CJ also has some advice for new university students.
“Come with an open mind and be willing to learn from everyone. There are no limitations to the amount of knowledge you can gain. Listen when you’re in class - that friend who’s texting you can wait an hour for your response! RMIT has done an excellent job of finding teachers that are the best at what they do, but if they see that you’re not paying attention, they won’t stop and wait for you.
"Time is precious. But if you don’t understand something, don’t hesitate to ask for help! Trust me, you’ll find the help you need if you ask for it. Join the student union and make friends. And get an internship or some Work Integrated Learning before you graduate because it really does set you apart.”
What’s next for CJ is starting his own business and using his business skills to make a difference.
“I’d like to create a multinational organization that provides more access to educational technology to people in Southern Africa, providing the same opportunities that people in developed countries receive.”
