Navigating Uni and Work Experience - The Great Balancing Act

Having to juggle university while gaining real-life work experience is a lot to deal with. But it can be a game-changer for your career. Here’s Grace Kumar, our Undergraduate Traffic Engineer, who’ll tell you about how choosing the right employer can matter.  

At WGA, our career development program, Elevate, offers hands-on learning and mentorship, involvement in meaningful projects, and more.

1. What drew you to study Engineering?

From designing safer roads to landslide mitigation strategies, engineers build solutions that enhance everyday life—and I find that both inspiring and exciting! I always loved figuring out how things worked and enjoyed playing with Lego as a child.

2. Why did you decide to join the WGA program in particular?

I decided to join WGA because it offered an opportunity to gain hands-on experience while I study and learn from industry experts, helping me grow both academically and professionally. 

3. What challenges do you face while balancing work and studies? Any go to tips that help you stay on top of it all!

Exhaustion, especially towards the middle to end of the semester, is definitely a challenge. It’s easy to get caught up in deadlines and forget to take breaks, but I’ve learned that pushing through burnout isn’t productive. As cliché as it sounds, planning ahead and segmenting your days can really help—and don’t forget to take some time to breathe! If things start to feel overwhelming, don’t hesitate to communicate with your supervisor! 

4. What do you enjoy doing outside of work and Uni?

Outside of work and uni, I enjoy going on long walks/hikes and playing the guitar!  

5. What’s your favourite thing about working at WGA?

My favourite thing about working at WGA is the friendly and supportive environment. It’s also really cool to see how collaborative teamwork brings projects to life—from planning to execution, everyone plays a part in making it happen.