Hi, I’m Mia!
I'm in my third year of a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) - Software Engineering (Computer Engineering major). I joined the Women in Engineering Student Leaders to give advice about software engineering and computer engineering and support future students.
What or who inspired you to choose engineering?
It was a combination of my high school careers teacher not letting me leave physics and my amazing physics teacher where I found my passion for the practicality of math and where my passion was fuelled. It was also through the after-school clubs where we built circuits and problem solved using technology which inspired my passion for a hands-on career pathway.
Why did you choose the discipline you are studying?
I chose software engineering because I love the satisfaction of solving a problem, like all aspects of engineering the more difficult the problem is the more liberating it is when you can solve it!
What is one thing about university or engineering that you wished you knew earlier?
As someone from a small rural area, I love being at university because I am surrounded by open- and like-minded people. I wish I had someone to tell me how amazing university is and how amazing the people at university are as well as the opportunities and freedom that surround your daily university life, like getting to choose what each semester looks like.
What made you pick engineering at the University of Queensland over other universities?
I love how UQ offers flexible first year, giving you a taste of each specialisation before choosing one you like, I would have never chosen software engineering if I wasn’t pushed in that direction, it’s a future I had never expected or even considered and now I couldn’t be happier knowing I have found a career path I am passionate about. UQ is a unique university, it has a beautiful campus situated right along the river, which is a great motivator for coming into university.
Give us your best tip for first-year engineering students?
My main tips for thriving in first year engineering would be to make a study routine and use UQ libraries, being surrounded by other studious people will make you focussed and help you study during your exams.
Tell us your favourite example of amazing engineering?
The Veluwemeer Aqueduct, the water bridge which looks like it goes over traffic in the Netherlands has to be the coolest engineering example in my opinion because it combines practical engineering with an appreciation for the beauty of the environment.
What's your dream engineering job when you graduate?
My dream engineering job would be a software developer; I want to be able to problem solve and create positive change in my work. Additionally, I want to be challenged and learn as much as possible to be able to upskill in my career.
What do you hope to achieve as a WE student leader?
I want to be the encouraging voice that inspires young women to choose, or at least consider, the possibility of engineering and show them that it is a career path that will welcome them.
