Hi, I'm Charlotte!
I'm in my Second Year of a Bachelor of Engineering (Civil). I caught up with the Women in Engineering team to chat all things engineering and offer my advice to new engineering students.
What or who inspired you to choose engineering?
I didn’t know that I wanted to study engineering. I loved maths and science in high school but wasn’t sure how to apply those interests. It was when family and friends suggested I explore engineering that things started to click. After attending work experience events and information days such as the Women in Engineering Spring into Action Camp that I gained a deeper understanding of the diverse roles enigneers can play, and that's when I knew I wanted to study engineering.
Why did you choose the discipline you are studying?
During the flexible first year, I really enjoyed the materials and statics course that I took, leading me to consider the civil specialisation. I have also always loved seeing the practical side of what I am studying so being able to see infrastructure like bridges, roads, and buildings is a bonus!
What is one thing about university or engineering that you wished you knew earlier?
One thing I wish I knew earlier was that it is ok to not know what specialisation you would like to study before the first year. The Flexible First Year Plan is such an amazing opportunity to try and experience the different specialisations and I recommend keeping an open mind as I would never have thought of me in a civil specialisation.
What made you pick engineering at the University of Queensland over other universities?
There were several key factors that influenced my decision to study at UQ instead of the other universities. The stunning campus and the high-end facilities stood out to me, offering a perfect environment for studying and learning. I also appreciated UQ's flexible first year program, which allowed me to explore different specialisations before committing to one. Additionally, UQ's exchange program, its strong academic reputation and the wide range of extracurricular activities offered reinforced my decision.
Give us your best tip for first-year engineering students?
My top tip is to attend as many events in person as possible, as it is the best way to connect with others. This includes going to lectures and workshops on campus, even though online options may seem more convenient. I also recommend getting involved in extracurricular activities and attending their social events. During the first year, there are plenty of orientation events that provide a great opportunity to meet others, helping you build a network of familiar faces to spot around campus.
Tell us your favourite example of amazing engineering?
One example of engineering that I still find truly amazing is the construction of the pyramids. The fact that they were built over 4000 years ago, without modern technology and relying solely on human labour, is a testament to the incredible precision and organisation of ancient engineers. Their ability to plan, design and execute such monumental structures with limited tools and resources available at the time continues to fascinate and inspire me.
What's your dream engineering job when you graduate?
While I am still figuring out my exact dream job, I would love a career that allows me to travel. Ultimately, I see myself moving into the management side of engineering.
What do you hope to achieve as a WE student leader?
If it were not for the support and guidance from the WE student leaders, I wouldn't be pursuing a degree in engineering. Their encouragement made all the difference, and now I want to pass on that same inspiration to future women, showing them that studying is not only achievable but also within reach for anyone determined to succeed.
