Kiran completed her master by research earlier this year, and has since found a teaching role in a university in her home country Pakistan. Her research in computer sciences received international acclaim and awards.

"When I was finishing my study I was accepted at the 34th Australian Computer Science Conference in Perth, 2011. From my paper I won two awards at that conference which were best student award and best paper award. My supervisor submitted work, which included my paper, to the Federal Virtual Worlds Challenge (organised by US Army Research Laboratory, Simulation & Training Technology Centre, United States) and we came in 3rd place. My research project also acclaimed 3rd place in final competition of Gala session in Intelligent Virtual Worlds conference, 2010. 

The facilities at UTS are great. For my research project we needed the latest computers, I requested a new one so they gave me a new computer and I had a really good space in the lab.

My supervisor set quite high standards and I think that was really important to help me achieve my goals. In Pakistan I had a lot of support from family and friends whilst I was studying, but when you’re abroad you’ve got to do everything by yourself. It was not that easy but it was good experience to manage your own work life balance.

Sydney became one of my favourite cities, because of the weather and its friendly residents. I found a lot of good friends from diverse cultural backgrounds. You can taste good quality food. There are a lot of nice places, entertainment activities and beaches to spend your leisure time and to relax.

My future plan is to pursue my PhD. Right now I’m teaching in Pakistan in one of the universities and I’m also involved in research with my old supervisor at UTS.

I would advise any students thinking about studying at UTS to definitely pursue the opportunity because it could be a life changing experience. It could give you a lot of exposure, a lot of confidence to move forward, and also give you opportunities when you go back home."