May 12, 2025
Meet Sydney Business School, UOW student, Ankita Rajput
Student spotlight: Ankita Rajput
Meet Ankita, a passionate postgraduate student from India studying and , who reflects on her journey to UOW, the support she found through the BIPMN program, and how getting involved on campus made all the difference.
Ankita’s journey from India to UOW
Ankita Rajput is a passionate and forward-thinking student from northern India. Currently pursuing a and at the Ankita’s path to UOW is built on a strong academic foundation in Electronics and Communication Engineering and a Post Graduate Diploma in Management. Before arriving in Australia, she spent over three years working in an investment banking startup an experience that sparked her fascination with data-driven decision-making and business strategy.
Drawn to Business Analytics and Project Management
After gaining firsthand experience in the financial sector, Ankita realised the power of analytics in shaping business outcomes. Keen to strengthen her technical and strategic toolkit, she chose UOW for its academic reputation and practical teaching approach. “The curriculum is not just theory-heavy; it’s applied and collaborative,” she says. “Adding Project Management to my degree gave me a broader edge in leadership and execution.”
Adapting to a new country and academic life
Moving to Australia came with its fair share of adjustments. From cultural shifts to a new academic environment, Ankita had to find her footing quickly. Her approach? Planning and prioritising. “I’m a planner—I like mapping things out in advance, which helped me juggle studies, work, and a social life,” she shares. Over time, what seemed overwhelming became second nature.
Overcoming challenges along the way
For Ankita, the most difficult part of this journey was adapting emotionally and practically to a new setting. From securing part-time work to dealing with homesickness, there were hurdles to face. But she chose to stay open—attending events, making new friends, and building a support network. “Engaging with others helped me stay positive and motivated,” she says.
The joy of getting involved on campus
One of Ankita’s favourite things about life at UOW is the vibrant campus culture. “You meet people from everywhere, learn about new cultures, and feel like you belong,” she says. Through student clubs and university celebrations, she’s embraced the diversity around her and encourages others to do the same: “Say yes to opportunities. That’s how you grow.”
Gaining experience as a student casual
Working behind the scenes at campus events gave Ankita a whole new perspective. She learned how much thought and collaboration goes into making events welcoming for all students. “It was fun, social, and educational at the same time,” she says. The experience helped her build confidence, improve her communication skills, and deepen her connection to the university community.
Settling in with peer support
Being part of the Business International Peer Mentoring Network (BIPMN) gave Ankita the support she needed in her early days at UOW. Her mentor offered guidance that made the academic and cultural transition easier. “It made a big difference knowing someone was there to help,” she says. She also formed lasting connections with peers through BIPMN events, which helped her feel grounded and supported.
Making the most of campus life
For Ankita, being actively involved isn’t just about academics, it’s about creating community. “The more you engage, the more fulfilling your university journey becomes,” she says. Her advice to new students is simple but powerful: “Be present, talk to people, and get involved. You never know what you’ll learn or who you’ll meet.”
Looking ahead to a career in Business Analytics
Ankita sees herself stepping into a Business Analyst role after graduation—ideally in a global, innovative company like Amazon or KPMG. With her dual degrees, she feels prepared to lead data-informed projects and contribute to strategic initiatives. Whether she builds her career in Australia or returns to India, her goal is clear: to make an impact through thoughtful, analytical leadership.
Final reflections and friendly advice
As Ankita reflects on her journey so far, her message to peers is filled with warmth and encouragement:
“Enjoy this time. Say yes to opportunities, even if they feel unfamiliar. Every challenge teaches you something. Trust yourself and take things one step at a time. Everything will fall into place—and you’ll create memories that last a lifetime.”