International Student of the Year for Research goes to Bartlomiej Kolodziejcyzk from Poland
POLAND’S Bartlomiej Kolodziejcyzk has been named International Student of the Year for Research. In addition to presenting his research internationally, the Doctorate of Engineering student has also been keeping busy outside the classroom, by getting involved in TV. In a series of interviews with Victorian International Education Award winners and finalists, Marina Solomon brings you the stories worth celebrating.
Monash University’s Doctorate of Engineering student Bartlomiej Kolodziejcyzk is the winner of this year’s Victorian International Education Award for Research.
The Research Award was presented to one international student actively pursuing a postgraduate research program, whether that be at a Masters or PhD level. The award celebrates the student that has demonstrated outstanding academic achievements and has contributed to the internationalisation of their institution and to the Victorian community.
Mr Kolodziejcyzk, from Poland, has been studying at Monash University for the past three years. He has been privileged with being able to present his research at international conferences and has even established the International Association for Exchange of Students for Technical Experience Australia Ltd (IAESTE Australia).
IAESTE Australia is part of a worldwide network that allows students from Australian universities to participate in European internships. Bartlomiej has been the president for three years and has been leading more than 70 volunteers around Australia.
He found that getting involved with work outside of his studies, such as being an extra on Australian hit TV-Show ‘Neighbours’ and ‘Winners & Losers’, allowed him to develop his interpersonal skills.
Other finalists
Mrs Ashrafalsadat Hosseini, Iran
PhD in Mental health – University of Melbourne
Ashrafalsadat’s work connects her to community programs involved with migrants and refugee groups. She is a volunteer for a number of community initiatives, including her works with the Victorian Police Academy assisting them with cultural exchanges. Mrs Hosseini is also a Community Mental Health Visitor and a part of the Office of the Public Advocate community, Independent Third Person. Ashrafalsadat’s findings have assisted her with research for her PhD.
Mr Arjun Rajkhowa, India
Strategic Communications – La Trobe University
Mr Rajkhowa has been working as a Student Learning Advisor amidst his studies at La Trobe University. Arjun found that being a part of such a large student community has been a transformative experience, both academically and socially. Arjun is also involved in the art, culture, politics and health sectors of Melbourne’s community.
Ms Feifei Hu, China
Doctorate in Health and Nutrition – Deakin University
Feifei previously studied in the United States and found one of her professors recommending Melbourne as her next destination. Moving to Melbourne, Feifei came to find that the city had a lot to offer. Feifei advises that anyone coming to Melbourne to study should try and befriend people from different cultures, especially native English speakers as it helps improve your knowledge and gives you the opportunity to learn. Feifei is involved in VicICT for Women, which aids to connect women in IT with businesses to promote the benefits of hiring women.
Mr Matteo Dutto, Italy
Phd in Film Studies – Monash University
In his last 15 months of study, Matteo has found a deep interest in social and cultural policies. Through his PhD studies, Matteo has examined Indigenous communities and even cross-cultural storytelling. Mr Dutto found that getting involved with the local community was a great opportunity to establish new roots and find renewed motivation.
The Victorian International Education Awards (VIEA) is in it’s 2nd year and is an awards ceremony that celebrates leaders in Victoria’s international sector, highlighting the achievements of both institutions and international students furthering their education at Victoria’s highly regarded education services.