Hi, I’m Ahona!
I’m a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) and Master of Engineering – Civil Engineering student. I joined the Women in Engineering Student Leaders to give advice about civil engineering and support future students.
What or who inspired you to choose engineering?
I chose engineering because of the direct impact it has on people and the environment. I was drawn to civil engineering in particular because it's everywhere. I can see it, use it, and benefit from it daily. I want to do something that has a real, positive, and tangible effect on society, and engineering gives me the tools to make that impact.
Why did you choose the discipline you are studying?
I chose Civil Engineering because I’ve always been interested in how things are designed and built, and I wanted to be part of creating infrastructure that genuinely improves people’s daily lives. It combines practical problem-solving with meaningful, real world impact, which is what drew me to the discipline.
What is one thing about university or engineering that you wished you knew earlier?
Managing your time well is one of the most valuable skills you can develop in engineering. With courses, work, and personal life all competing for attention, strong study habits and clear organisation make a huge difference in staying on top of everything.
What made you pick engineering at the University of Queensland over other universities?
I was uncertain about which engineering specialty would be the best fit for me after deciding to study engineering at university. One of the key reasons I chose UQ was because of its flexible first-year program. This program allowed me to explore different electives and discover my interests without feeling locked into a specific path immediately. Additionally, I was intrigued by the various exchange programs offered by UQ. The possibility of traveling to different places while continuing my studies was an exciting opportunity.
Give us your best tip for first-year engineering students?
One of the best tips for first-year engineering students is don’t go in without a plan, engineering gets busy quickly, so using a planner or Google Calendar is essential for keeping track of deadlines, classes, and commitments.
It also really helps to join something outside of study, whether that’s a club, a sport, or volunteering, because having a break from coursework makes you more productive and lets you build friendships and networks. Most importantly, remember to rest, because burnout is surprisingly common in engineering if you don’t manage your time and energy. Finding a balance early makes the rest of your degree far more manageable.
Tell us your favourite example of amazing engineering?
One of my favourite examples of amazing engineering is the Great Wall of China. It’s an incredible demonstration of large-scale planning and resourcefulness, especially considering the limited technology available at the time. Stretching thousands of kilometres, it shows how engineering can shape landscapes and stand the test of time.
What's your dream engineering job when you graduate?
My dream job is to be a structural engineer! I want to design buildings, bridges, and infrastructure that people use every day, things that are essential to our lives and communities.
What do you hope to achieve as a WE student leader?
As a WE Student Leader, my goal is to inspire young girls to see engineering as a real and exciting option for their future. I want them to know that there is a strong, supportive community of women who thrive in this field. Diversity brings new perspectives and leads to better solutions, and there is absolutely a place for them in engineering. My hope is that they feel confident, welcomed, and encouraged to pursue the pathways that excite them most.
