In 2023, Luoyan Wei made a decision that would change the direction of her life.
After placing third in a fitness competition in China in 2022, she gained a new sense of self-confidence that inspired her to finally pursue a goal she had carried for years: studying overseas.
What followed was a journey that took her from learning to speak English, to student leadership, motorsport innovation and, ultimately, representing her graduating class as valedictorian at the University of Tasmania.
With a background in computer science from the Beijing Institute of Technology, she chose to study the Master of Information Technology and Systems after hearing positive reports about Tasmania and the University from friends.
A scholarship, combined with Tasmania's comparatively affordable study costs, helped confirm the decision. And while the Tasmanian landscape was breathtaking, it was something else that stood out when she arrived.
“What struck me even more, though, was how warm and approachable the locals were,” she said.
“I would often say hello to strangers on the street, and people would always respond so warmly and stop to chat. I am genuinely so grateful for the wonderful people and culture I found here.”
That sense of connection became a recurring theme throughout her time at the University.
Although her studies focused on information technology, Luoyan embraced every aspect of university life beyond the classroom. Inspired by advice she received at the University’s English Language Centre, she became actively involved in volunteering, student leadership and community programs, supporting initiatives such as TUSA Clubs & Societies Days, the Source Eco Hub and the TUSA Food Hub, while also serving as a student representative during her studies.
The same willingness to try new things extended into her academic work. Group assignments, international collaboration and volunteer projects pushed her beyond her comfort zone, while helping her learn how to lead and contribute effectively within teams.
After developing a strong interest in cybersecurity, Luoyan chose a cybersecurity-focused project as the capstone project of her master’s degree and worked as project manager while also leading the team's AI algorithm work.
The project attracted significant interest during the final showcase, including positive feedback from industry professionals and ongoing engagement from the client.
“What I learned most from this project was to take initiative in your own work,” she said.
“To be kind and encouraging to your teammates – just like our supervisors were to us – and most importantly, to never fear challenges, to embrace anything new, to make good use of the learning tools available, and to keep adjusting direction as you move forward.
“Treat it like it's your own business and give it everything you've got.”
One of her most influential experiences was with UTAS Motorsport, a cross-discipline initiative where students design, manufacture, fund, build and race their own Formula-style, open-wheeled racing car in the national Formula SAE competition.
Her involvement grew rapidly. She even recruited ICT students into hands-on development work and oversaw a website development project that gave fellow students practical experience.
“I realised how important real experience is for landing a job in the future, especially experience directly relevant to your field, and I actually got my first web development job through this kind of practical experience.”
Industry experience followed quickly. During her second semester, she successfully applied for a junior software engineering position with web development business Eighty Options after receiving a university-wide email advertising the opportunity. She has continued working with the company ever since.
And by the time Luoyan finished her master’s degree, the student who started out speaking very little English was chosen to give the valedictory address on behalf of her fellow students at her graduation ceremony.
“You don't need perfect English or a fully mapped-out future to start [studying],” she said.
“When I arrived, I could barely follow conversations. Yet Tasmania offered the environment and community that shaped me into who I am today.”