Queensland University of Technology (QUT) student Hasitha Samaratunga is mid-way through a double degree and already putting his skills to use in the working world. Studying a Bachelor of Business/Bachelor of Corporate Systems Management, the young entrepreneur has joined forces with fellow QUT Creative Industries student Nicholas Burge to start up a web design company Pixel Sense Media (www.pixelsensemedia.com.au/).

Hasitaha Samaratunga, student following double degree programme at QUT

"My degree is run jointly by the QUT Business School and Faculty of Science and Technology which means I can get a strong understanding of the relationships between information, technology, business and people," said Hasitha. "My friend Nicholas is learning fantastic creative skills in his course and teaming up with him has proven the perfect formula to establish a business."

Pixel Sense Media offers businesses Web design and development, print design and hosting services, and Hasitha and Nicholas say it is their client-centred approach which sets them apart. "Our lecturers and tutors at QUT have always encouraged us to adopt new ways of thinking, so we dedicate a lot of our time to learning and adopting ways of improving the web user experience for our clients," said Hasitha
Currently in the third year of a four year double degree, Hasitha has also taken part in the QUT Career Mentor Programme which gives students the opportunity to forge a supportive, ongoing relationship with an industry expert. Hasitha partnered with a Queensland Government Business Manager and meets regularly to learn professional skills and gain early career support. "The mentor programme has been invaluable and I know that it will give me a real edge when I complete my degree."

Hasitha's active student, professional and social life is also the subject of his online student blog, part of QUT's official Student Sharehouse Bloghttp://studentblog.qut.edu.au/bloggers/hasitha/
For more information about QUT, visit www.qut.edu.au/international

CRICOS No. 00213J.
Source: David Samuel, Business Development Manager
Australian Trade Commission (Austrade), Colombo-Sri Lanka
E-mail: David.Samuel@austrade.gov.au