Hi, I'm Hannah!
I'm in my Third Year of a Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical and Environmental) / Bachelor of Science (Ecology and Conservation Biology). 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?
The encouragement of my family played a big role on my choice of studying engineering. My Dad had experience with engineering and my brother studied engineering ahead of me, so I was surrounded by role models in the field at home. Hearing about the exciting projects and opportunities available to those that follow engineering pathways gave me the confidence that this was the right path for me.
Why did you choose the discipline you are studying?
I always knew I wanted to do something involving sustainability and the natural world and environmental engineering fit these criteria perfectly. To undergo a major in environmental engineering I could either specialise in Chemical or Civil Engineering. I chose Chemical as I wanted to focus more on a biochemical and science-based view of engineering instead of the more man-made and industrial side of engineering you discover in Civil.
What is one thing about university or engineering that you wished you knew earlier?
I wish I knew there was so many different fields of engineering. Throughout an engineering degree you are able to dive even deeper than general engineering or your specialisation. The majors and electives offered in engineering really allow people to cater their degree to their interests and career aspirations. I thought that I would end up taking Chemical Engineering courses until the end of my degree, but I have had so much more freedom than that.
What made you pick engineering at the University of Queensland over other universities?
I loved that UQ had a goal in terms of gender equality in the School of Engineering. It’s really comforting knowing that UQ recognised a disparity in their engineering demographic and in the field of engineering as a society. Knowing that there are people on my side rooting for me to succeed in a male dominated field gives me confidence in myself. On a different note, I also really love the jacarandas all around the campus. They can brighten my mood after any difficult tutorial. UQ also has an amazing student exchange program that allows you to choose a study abroad location from a huge list of international universities.
Give us your best tip for first-year engineering students?
A very popular tip but join some clubs. There are hundreds of them at UQ and it is such an amazing way to get to know like-minded people. Even if the club has nothing to do with your degree, don’t be scared to try something new as you may find a new hobby or make some new connections. Some clubs even offer overnight and holiday activities at discounted rates so they are also a great way to get off campus and have some fun.
Tell us your favourite example of amazing engineering?
Just recently while on exchange I visited the Falkirk wheel, a rotating boat lift in Scotland that allows transport of boats between two canals of different heights. It is a truly one-of-a-kind feat of engineering and creativity that proves anything is possible with some good engineering.
What's your dream engineering job when you graduate?
I would love to be able to work outdoors and in the field as an environmental engineer. Surveying and consulting would be ideal but anything that involves me getting out of the office while contributing to a more sustainable future will work perfectly.
What do you hope to achieve as a WE student leader?
I hope to get to know some future students of UQ and help them feel supported. I’d love to make women looking for a career in engineering feel as welcome as I was made to feel by the WE student leaders. Everyone deserves the opportunity!
