Hi, I'm Rhiannon!
I'm in my Third Year of a dual degree studying a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Chemical and a Bachelor of Business Management. 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?
Throughout high school, I always knew that I wanted to pursue a career pathway that would allow me to integrate my passion for science and mathematics while contributing to a sustainable future. However, when the QTAC applications in Year 12 came around, I still had no idea what I wanted to do.
This all changed when my mum introduced me to her friend, currently working as an engineer. After hearing him share his experiences, travel opportunities and projects that he worked on as an engineer, I had a light bulb moment. I realised from that point on engineering was where I could apply my passion for science and mathematics into real world scenarios all while contributing towards a sustainable future. Furthermore, what appealed to me was how engineers play a crucial role in tackling the most pressing global issues such as climate change and resource management.
Why did you choose the discipline you are studying?
In high school, chemistry was my favourite subject, sparking my initial interest in chemical engineering. However, during my first year, I kept my options open, and despite trying out the first-year courses for other specialisations, I found that I was the most drawn to the thermodynamics and chemistry courses. The more I delved into these courses, the deeper my curiosity grew about the complexity of the processes studied in class. Additionally, learning about the range of jobs and industries that chemical engineers work in got me excited about the incredible variety of career paths I could follow.
What is one thing about university or engineering that you wished you knew earlier?
When I was in high school, the biggest misconception I heard was that you had to be a maths genius to peruse engineering. While maths is highly important throughout your degree, there is so much more to engineering. Teamwork, problem-solving and communication skills equally vital! Another aspect I wish I had known about engineering was the diverse range of career pathways an engineering degree can offer. There are opportunities for engineers in almost every industry.
What made you pick engineering at the University of Queensland over other universities?
Before moving to Brisbane, the University of Queensland stood out to me as it was highly regarded and recognised internationally. When visiting the UQ campus in Year 12 for the first time I remember seeing the Advanced Engineering Building and was captivated by its unique design! I remember hoping I would have the opportunity to attend classes in such an inspiring environment. I’ll never get over how stunning the campus is, seeing the nature and wildlife incorporated all around UQ (especially during Jacaranda season)!
Give us your best tip for first-year engineering students?
Never hesitate to ask questions! The transition from high school to university can be very daunting at times, especially when it comes to overwhelming amount of new content being thrown at you. Never feel as if you have to do it all alone. UQ offers so much support including tutors, online discussion boards for each course and the First Year Engineering Learning Centre.
I highly recommend attending all the tutorials/practicals/workshops that are non-compulsory! It was in these classes where I developed a clearer and a deeper understanding of the concepts in the courses.
Tell us your favourite example of amazing engineering?
It has to be Angkor Wat in Cambodia. I remember visiting in 2015 and being astonished by the beauty and complexity of the ancient ruins. Looking back on it now, I have such an appreciation for the engineering ideas that were used to develop such a large and intricate temple complex in the 12th century – without the technology we have today!
What's your dream engineering job when you graduate?
My dream job is to become an Engineering Operations Manager because it combines my technical passions in chemical engineering, leadership aspirations and commitment to sustainable practices!
To me, my dream job is a career path that allows me to integrate my skills, passions, and values into a role with a meaningful impact on the business, the environment, and society. It is also one that gives me the opportunity to travel across the world and immerse myself in different cultures! While the specific industry that I want to work in is something I am still discovering as I progress through my degree, I am excited to uncover where my path leads!
What do you hope to achieve as a WE student leader?
Coming into university and understanding the pivotal role diversity plays in the workforce, I hope that by sharing my enthusiasm and experiences in engineering, I can inspire young females to look into pursuing engineering. I am so excited to use my voice as a WE leader and demonstrate to young women who are passionate in STEM that engineering could potentially be that career they have been searching for all along. I hope to empower new female engineering students and support them along their journey as future engineers!
