Akshay Varasadiya

Graduate Diploma in Information Technology

India

Akshay Varasadiya never considered coming to New Zealand before his friend recommended OPAIC.

“He told me Otago Polytechnic is one of the best in Auckland city, so you should apply at this college,” Akshay says.

After researching the polytechnic and getting feedback from past students, Akshay decided to sign up.

The move to New Zealand was his first overseas trip. He’s glad he selected New Zealand and feels proud of the country when he discusses it with friends studying in the USA, Australia and Canada.

“Compared to that, New Zealand is the best, for study, culture, atmosphere, for everything.”

He says New Zealand is all about unity and diversity. He can meet all kinds of people and get global exposure here. 

Akshay says the best parts about studying at OPAIC were the lectures, the friendly culture, and the personal attention he received. During the Graduate Diploma in Information Technology, he learned about business, and marketing as well as IT. 

Now that he’s finished his diploma he’s started his own company, called SmartBrainz, with a former professor. He says he's putting everything he learned at the polytechnic into practice in his work.

Akshay is the project manager for the company which specialises in website development, application development (android and IOS), software development, search engine optimisation, digital marketing, and all kinds of graphic services.

It’s only been going a few months but has already has several clients. One business they work with is a cosmetic salon where Akshay completed an internship during his time at OPAIC.

Akshay managed to secure some additional clients during a recent Showcase on campus, which brought students, staff and industry partners together to share research.

Read more about the Graduate Diploma in Information Technology.