Many engineering projects come down to policy objectives, and I want to understand both sides well enough to work at the intersection of engineering and policy.
For Joshua Chai, studying engineering is not only about solving technical problems. It also means understanding the policies, priorities and social needs that shape how those solutions are used.
Originally from Malaysia, Joshua moved to Australia shortly before beginning a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)/Bachelor of Arts at The Australian National University (ANU) in the first semester of 2025. Now in his second year, he is majoring in Public Policy through his Bachelor of Arts.
The flexibility of the Bachelor of Arts was a major part of its appeal. It gave him room to explore different subjects while building knowledge that complements his engineering studies.
“Many engineering projects come down to policy objectives,” Joshua says. “I want to understand both sides well enough to work at the intersection of engineering and policy.”
That connection became tangible during a semester-long engineering project in which his team built a rover capable of navigating a maze. Alongside the technical work, one project milestone asked the students to consider the societal need their design addressed and the benefits it could provide.
The exercise brought his two areas of study together.
“That is exactly what I wanted to learn and incorporate,” he says.
Canberra also played an important role in Joshua’s decision to study at ANU. He was drawn to its quieter environment, natural surroundings and campus lifestyle.
“I like the environment Canberra offers me – small, quiet, and full of nature and greenery,” he says. “It is a nice change from the big cities and a good environment for focusing and studying.”
Like many students moving interstate or overseas, Joshua initially wondered how easily he would find a community. Living in a residential hall made it easier to form friendships, particularly because many other students were also arriving in Canberra for the first time.
“In terms of making friends, everyone starts at the same starting line,” he says.
Outside the classroom, Joshua pursues his interest in international relations through the ANU Society for the United Nations. His involvement has taken him interstate to participate in Model United Nations conferences across Australia.
A tutor in Introduction to Politics also strengthened his interest in political reform through her research into Malaysian judicial reform and legitimacy. Although the judiciary is not his intended area of work, the subject encouraged him to remain engaged with political developments in Malaysia.
After graduating, Joshua hopes to work in state or federal government, particularly in an energy or infrastructure department where he can draw on both sides of his double degree.
His advice to prospective students is to follow their interests and remain open to unexpected opportunities.
“Do what interests you most and take advantage of every opportunity presented to you,” he says. “Who knows what may happen from there? In a place like Canberra, it is not uncommon to find new opportunities.”
