Trading commerce for community development
My absolute favourite part of the course is meeting people who come from all corners of the world to share their experiences – their stories light up every conversation in class.
Pragya Kapil
Master of International Community Development
With a background in commerce but a passion for community development, Pragya Kapil embarked on a life-changing journey to Victoria University (VU).
The former EY (Ernst & Young) employee and Indian resident realised her true calling while volunteering at the Rotaract Club of Chandigarh, the youth wing of Rotary, during her Bachelor in Commerce from Panjab University, Chandigarh, from 2009 to 2012.
After teaching at a government primary school in Old Delhi for two years as part of Teach for India – a nationwide movement that aims to eliminate education inequity in India – Pragya was accepted into the Master of International Community Development at VU.
"International Community Development is an extraordinary course which provides knowledge of contemporary issues that countries are facing, along with best practices on how to respond to and resolve them.
My absolute favourite part of the course is meeting people who come from all corners of the world to share their experiences – their stories light up every conversation in class. The course is filled with open discussions, excursions to live community projects and conversations with people who have made it happen.
Importantly, the teachers are all committed community development workers and every class leaves you thinking about how you fit into the global community model."
Aside from being attracted by VU’s practical, personalised and world-class education, Pragya says she chose VU for its vibrant social atmosphere and is now setting up a Friends @ VU social club.
"The University offers various student clubs and extracurricular opportunities which has made it easy for me to meet new people. There are also a number of staff jobs made available to students.
As an international student, getting local experience is a great start to living abroad."
Upon completion of her two-year qualification, Pragya says she hopes to build on her experience teaching children.
"I chose International Community Development because while I know that kids are kids, it’s the community that evolves them into vibrant young adults.
This course will enable me to learn the necessary skills to bring communities from different cultures together and help grow their children.
Without VU, this wouldn’t be possible."