Kenny Tirtawidjaja
Student Stories Profiles
Kenny Tirtawidjaja
Name: Kenny Tirtawidjaja
Born: Indonesia
Locations: Christchurch - Canterbury
Discipline: Engineering, Manufacturing & Surveying
Kenny Tirtawidjaja first chose a New Zealand education for his final secondary years. Then, when considering options for tertiary education, it was important for him to get a degree from a university that was internationally-recognised. With this goal in mind, continuing his studies in New Zealand was the obvious choice. "Friends had told me how good the University of Canterbury was. I came, had a look, and I agree with them!
"The standard of teaching at the University of Canterbury is extremely good and the facilities are excellent. The engineering school staff and supervisors have been very welcoming and encouraging. The department even organised a social day to help new students mix with staff members, lecturers and post-graduate students. That was a great experience! Outside the lecture time, the lecturers are very easy going and able to mix well with the students in some recreational occasions. They are also very helpful and willing to help you if you have any problems with the course."
In addition to his studies, Kenny has enjoyed many aspects of the New Zealand lifestyle. Prior to university life, he first completed secondary Years 12 and 13 at Christ's College in Christchurch. "It's very safe here, especially at night. Christchurch is not too big, or too small. It's quick to get around, as public transport is reliable, easy and cheap. The weather is great - but most importantly it's a city that is affordable for students."
New Zealand offers a great variety of recreational opportunities, and Kenny has discovered many new sporting interests. "I never knew what rugby was until I came here, but once you show an interest, people welcome you immediately. I have really enjoyed the sporting side to my life at the University: I have played basketball, touch rugby, cricket and soccer - all with friends, both after lectures and in the weekends."
Kenny also plans to include a semester-long exchange to TU Dermstadt in Germany as part of his qualification. With graduation a year away, initially he would like to commence work in the field of mechanical engineering either in Europe or New Zealand. Long-plans are to return to Indonesia to fully develop his career, and utilise the benefits of his international education and multi-cultural experiences.
"The standard of teaching at the University of Canterbury is extremely good and the facilities are excellent. The engineering school staff and supervisors have been very welcoming and encouraging. The department even organised a social day to help new students mix with staff members, lecturers and post-graduate students. That was a great experience! Outside the lecture time, the lecturers are very easy going and able to mix well with the students in some recreational occasions. They are also very helpful and willing to help you if you have any problems with the course."
In addition to his studies, Kenny has enjoyed many aspects of the New Zealand lifestyle. Prior to university life, he first completed secondary Years 12 and 13 at Christ's College in Christchurch. "It's very safe here, especially at night. Christchurch is not too big, or too small. It's quick to get around, as public transport is reliable, easy and cheap. The weather is great - but most importantly it's a city that is affordable for students."
New Zealand offers a great variety of recreational opportunities, and Kenny has discovered many new sporting interests. "I never knew what rugby was until I came here, but once you show an interest, people welcome you immediately. I have really enjoyed the sporting side to my life at the University: I have played basketball, touch rugby, cricket and soccer - all with friends, both after lectures and in the weekends."
Kenny also plans to include a semester-long exchange to TU Dermstadt in Germany as part of his qualification. With graduation a year away, initially he would like to commence work in the field of mechanical engineering either in Europe or New Zealand. Long-plans are to return to Indonesia to fully develop his career, and utilise the benefits of his international education and multi-cultural experiences.
Christchurch - Canterbury
Christchurch is the main centre of the Canterbury region, an elegant old city close to the Southern Alps.