From building childhood gadgets to designing solutions for a better tomorrow, Wei Wong's passion for engineering runs deep.
After enrolling in the University of Southern Queensland’s (UniSQ) Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) program, Wei also received the Vermulapalli Raja Rao Memorial Scholarship, helping him carve out a future that blends innovation, sustainability, and real-world impact.
He spoke with us about his path to UniSQ, his aspirations in engineering, and how the scholarship has helped shape his academic journey.
Tell us about your study journey with UniSQ. Why did you choose to study here, and what are you currently studying?
As a second-time Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) student, I was looking for a degree that brought together my passion for mechanical systems and my growing interest in electronics and computer science. UniSQ’s Mechatronics major stood out to me for its comprehensive and future-focused curriculum, especially its emphasis on hands-on, practical learning.
What really appealed to me was UniSQ’s strong reputation for producing work-ready graduates and the flexibility in how I could approach my studies. It made UniSQ the perfect fit. So far, the journey has been incredible – I’ve been able to dive deep into robotics, automation, and control systems. The course continues to challenge me to think critically and solve complex engineering problems. I’ve had the opportunity to work on various projects and apply my learning in real-world contexts, which has been both rewarding and motivating.
What’s your dream career, and how did that passion come about?
My dream is to work in either the aerospace or renewable energy sector – two industries where innovation has the power to make a lasting global impact. I’m particularly interested in contributing to safer aviation technologies and the development of sustainable power solutions.
My fascination with aerospace actually started in early high school when I met an avionics engineer. Seeing what he did and learning about the field sparked something in me. Over time, my interest in mechanical systems deepened, which led me to pursue mechatronics engineering as a way to combine both passions into one dynamic career path.
You were awarded the Vermulapalli Raja Rao Memorial Scholarship. How did you discover this opportunity, and what made you decide to apply?
I came across the Vermulapalli Raja Rao Memorial Scholarship while browsing the UniSQ scholarship website. The fact that it’s a memorial scholarship really resonated with me – the idea of honouring someone’s legacy while pursuing my own goals gave the application a deeper meaning.
Knowing that the scholarship was specifically designed to support students like me made me feel confident that applying was the right step. The financial support has been incredibly helpful, but just as importantly, the recognition reminded me that I’m not alone in this journey. It’s a reminder that there are people and institutions invested in helping students succeed.
How has the scholarship supported your studies in the Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) program?
The impact has been far-reaching. Financially, it eased some of the pressure, allowing me to dedicate more energy and time to my studies and practical projects. But beyond that, it’s served as a huge motivator. It validated the hard work I’ve put in so far and gave me the confidence to continue pushing forward.
Being a scholarship recipient also connected me with a wider network within the UniSQ community – from fellow students to staff, which has opened doors to new conversations, perspectives, and opportunities I may not have otherwise encountered.
What do you hope to do after graduating from UniSQ?
In the short term, I’m aiming to secure a graduate position or engineering role where I can work on the design and development of automated systems, robotics, or advanced control technologies.
Long-term, I want to contribute to innovative projects that tackle critical challenges in the power industry – projects that push boundaries and deliver improvements in safety, efficiency, and environmental sustainability. My goal is to be part of the solution to some of the most pressing problems of our time.
What do you love most about engineering, and how would you like to contribute to the profession?
What I love most is that engineering is all about solving real-world problems through innovation. There’s something incredibly satisfying about taking an abstract idea, applying scientific principles, and creating a working system or product from it.
I want to contribute to the profession by being part of the next wave of engineers who don’t just build better systems – but build them with purpose. Whether it’s enhancing safety in aviation or developing technologies that reduce our environmental impact, I hope my work will lead to positive, lasting change.
The Vermulapalli Raja Rao Memorial Scholarship is just one of the many ways UniSQ supports students like Wei Wong as they pursue their passions and build a better future through engineering.
