Engineering students gain global exposure through
Deakin University’s Blue Marble Study Tour 2025

Two students from the Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science (LKC FES), namely Tan Lit Shen, a student of the Bachelor of Electrical and Electronic Engineering with Honours, and Wong Si Wei, who is pursuing the Bachelor of Civil Engineering (Environmental) with Honours is from Faculty of Engineering and Green Technology (FEGT), recently broadened their academic and cultural horizons by participating in the Blue Marble Study Tour 2025, organised by Deakin University, Australia, from 26 October to 8 November 2025.

Deakin University, located in the state of Victoria, is renowned for its world-class laboratories, strong emphasis on sustainability research, and industry-relevant teaching. During the two-week programme, the UTAR students had the opportunity to experience all three of Deakin’s campuses—Waurn Ponds and Waterfront in Geelong, and Burwood in Melbourne—each offering a distinct learning environment and academic culture.

Throughout the study tour, the participants engaged with academics, researchers, and fellow students from various disciplines. A key highlight was a series of presentations by Deakin’s PhD students specialising in sustainability-related research. These sessions provided valuable insights into professional research practices and exposed participants to real-world applications of sustainability concepts, while also offering opportunities for academic networking.

Academic learning was complemented by structured classes focusing on cross-cultural communication and adaptation. During the first week, students explored cultural values, behaviours, and social norms in Australia, with particular emphasis on understanding the differences between collectivist and individualist cultures. Through discussions and practical examples, participants reflected on how cultural perspectives influence decision-making, communication styles, and daily interactions, an essential skill for studying and working in an international environment.

Another defining feature of the Blue Marble Study Tour was its multinational cohort, comprising participants from various parts of Asia, including Central Asia, northern China, and Southeast Asia. Working alongside peers from diverse cultural backgrounds encouraged meaningful cultural exchange and fostered international friendships. Collaborative group work, including the production of a presentation video, challenged students to navigate communication styles, teamwork dynamics, and problem-solving approaches within a multicultural setting.

The programme concluded with a memorable closing ceremony, where participants wore traditional attire representing their respective cultures and celebrated the friendships and learning experiences formed during the tour.

Reflecting on the experience, Tan shared that the study tour was both enriching and transformative, as it expanded his academic exposure beyond his core engineering discipline while strengthening his cross-cultural competence, an invaluable asset for his future academic and career development.

Echoing this sentiment, Wong highlighted the personal growth gained through international collaboration. “Working with students from different countries challenged me to step out of my comfort zone. It taught me how to communicate ideas more clearly, respect different perspectives, and work effectively as part of a multicultural team, skills that will be essential for my future as an engineer,” he said.

Through initiatives such as the Blue Marble Study Tour, UTAR continues to provide students with meaningful international exposure, equipping them with global perspectives, interdisciplinary insights, and the adaptability needed to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.