Hi, I’m Elizabeth!
I'm in my second year of a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) and Master of Engineering – Chemical Engineering. I joined the Women in Engineering Student Leaders to give advice about chemical engineering and support future students.
What or who inspired you to choose engineering?
Initially, I didn’t consider engineering because I assumed it was for boys and just about building bridges. However, taking part in the UQ Women in Engineering Spring Into Engineering program completely changed my outlook. The student leaders and staff were incredibly supportive, answering all of my questions and inspired me to take the leap and study engineering.
Why did you choose the discipline you are studying?
I was torn between mechanical and chemical engineering, but after doing ENGG1500, I realised how much I liked the chemical side, particularly working out the processes of cycles. The majors in chemical engineering just seemed to fit what I’m interested in more than mechanical, so I went with chemical engineering.
What is one thing about university or engineering that you wish you had known earlier?
My advice is to take advantage of all the support that’s available for first-year engineering students. Don’t feel bad about needing help, everyone always does, they’re just too afraid to ask. Whether it’s tutors in the First Year Engineering Learning Centre, study groups, or UQ’s mentoring and wellbeing services, asking for help really does make university life so much smoother.
What made you pick engineering at the University of Queensland over other universities?
I wanted to specialise in either mechanical or chemical engineering, and I knew that both are ranked #1 in Queensland at UQ. That was important to me as it meant I'd have access to the best facilities, teachers, and opportunities in those fields. I also like the flexible first year option as it allowed me to try a variety of subjects to work out which specialisation I was interested in.
Give us your best tip for first-year engineering students?
Make sure to plan your time well, as university offers much more flexibility than high school. Also, get involved with clubs and societies, it's the perfect way to make friends in your degree and connect with older students who can support you throughout your first year.
Tell us your favourite example of amazing engineering?
To me, one of the most amazing feats of engineering is the International Space Station. Not only did engineers have to get multiple complex parts into orbit, but they then had to assemble it piece by piece in space! The fact that it is still in operation and supports groundbreaking research today is phenomenal.
What's your dream engineering job when you graduate?
My dream job right now is to help develop biofuels for the motorsport industry, particularly Formula One, with the goal of making the sport more sustainable. However, I do expect that as I get further into my degree, my dream job may change!
What do you hope to achieve as a WE student leader?
I want to show girls that engineering can be a creative and rewarding career where they can truly make a difference. As a WE student leader, I hope to challenge stereotypes, share my experiences, and help girls feel welcome and confident to try engineering. If I can inspire even one person to pursue this path, I’ll have succeeded!
