Meet Sydney CBD Campus Client Service Officer, Manish Pyakurel

Meet Manish from Nepal, who completed his Master of Business Analytics at the Sydney Business School, University of Wollongong, in December 2021.

Currently, Manish is a Client Service Officer at the Campus Service Centre (CSC) at the Sydney CBD Campus, where he’s passionate about making a positive impact for students every day.

Delivering client support 

I help students and relevant stakeholders with their questions and concerns, ensuring they have the resources and guidance to thrive. My responsibilities include creating study sequences, assisting the Head of Students with appointments, and supporting campus operations as needed.

Strengthening academic programs and student services

UOW offers a strong selection of courses aligned with industry demands, and its degrees are globally recognized. It prioritizes a student-friendly environment with smaller class sizes and flexible learning options, allowing for more personalized support from faculty. Additionally, UOW provides a variety of services, including academic advice, career counselling, and mental health support, to help students succeed. UOW is also committed to career development, offering resources to facilitate a smooth transition into the workforce.

UOW's education system and culture evolution 

Since I graduated, UOW has undergone significant changes! The university has embraced more flexible, tech-driven learning options, making it easier for students to balance their studies with other commitments. Additionally, there’s been a big focus on teaming up with industries and incorporating hands-on learning, which will give students more practical experience and job readiness.

Enhancing the academic journey 

I’m excited about the projects CSC is working on to enhance the student experience, especially around communication and support systems. One key project is the package offer processing (POP), which helps students transition smoothly between courses. It has been rewarding to see how such initiatives have provided students with timely information that has made their academic journey smoother.

Personal growth and development

One extracurricular activity that significantly impacted my personal growth was participating in student events and volunteering initiatives at UOW. These experiences helped me develop leadership, teamwork, and communication skills while giving back to the community. Engaging with diverse groups broadened my perspective, improved my problem-solving abilities, and taught me how to adapt to different situations.

One of my proudest achievements is completing my Master’s degree at UOW. This experience was more than just academic success; it taught me resilience, time management, and strong work ethic as I balanced studies, extracurriculars, and personal commitments. I’m also proud of my involvement in the POP work project at UOW, where I have made meaningful impact on students transitioning between courses. This experience highlighted the importance of effective communication and empathy in supporting others.

Experiencing city and natural sights

In my free time, I enjoy outdoor activities, exploring nature, and visiting new spots around Sydney. I like staying active, whether it is through exercise, hiking or simply spending time at the beach.

I recommend checking out the coastal walk from Bondi Beach to Coogee, or head to the Blue Mountains for some breathtaking hikes. Darling Harbour, right by our CBD campus, is also a great area for hanging out, with lots of cafes and restaurants. If you’re into art and culture, the Art Gallery of New South Wales and the Sydney Opera House can’t be missed. There’s so much for students to enjoy outside of the classroom.

Embracing the full experience 

My advice to UOW students is to fully embrace your university experience by getting involved both academically and socially. Don’t hesitate to seek help when needed, whether for academic support or mental health resources. Building connections with your peers, faculty, and industry professionals can create valuable opportunities down the line.

Also, remember to find a balance between your studies and self-care. Take time for hobbies, explore new places, and enjoy life outside of academics!