Liv Heaton powered through Year 11 and gained early entry to Mechatronic Engineering
Liv Heaton’s journey to UTS is a testament to her determination and passion for engineering. Coming from a school where achieving an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) wasn't customary, Liv faced her fair share of challenges. However, her resolve and commitment to her dreams propelled her forward.

Early Entry: stress-free pathway to UTS
Initially, Liv was anxious about her chances of gaining admission to UTS. Her worries subsided when she discovered the UTS Early Entry Program, a pathway that matched her strong performance in Year 11. This innovative program allows students to gain early admission based on their Year 11 results, significantly reducing the stress of final exams.
A passion for engineering and sustainability
Liv's passion for engineering and sustainable solutions is evident in her impressive Year 11 projects. Among her notable creations was a solar-powered hearing aid, a demonstration of her commitment to using technology to make a positive impact. Once at uni, Liv undertook extensive research on hearing loss in Indigenous communities throughout Australia. Her 10,000-word thesis explored how renewable energy could transform lives, highlighting her dedication to improving the world through engineering.
Embracing the UTS community
Receiving her acceptance email was a moment of sheer joy for Liv. She immediately immersed herself in the UTS community, eagerly setting up her student ID and email, and accessing the resources available. The sense of belonging and anticipation for the experiences ahead fuelled her enthusiasm.
Leading the way
At UTS, Liv has flourished, taking on the role of team lead for the UTS Electric Motorsports Team. This position has provided her with invaluable experience, from building an electric car to racing it in Victoria. Liv praises the practical focus of UTS, emphasising how it enhances her learning through practical applications and projects.
“I’ve received so much practical experience – the classes at UTS are very practically focused; it’s a great way to learn, that is one of my favourite things about the university.”
Advice for future students
Liv strongly encourages future UTS students to engage in extracurricular activities. She believes these experiences are crucial for learning valuable skills and applying theoretical knowledge. Her advice for those applying to the Early Entry Program is to do your best and highlight all your achievements, both academic and extracurricular. She emphasises the importance of believing in yourself and not letting anyone diminish your accomplishments.
A vision for the future
Liv’s story is one of resilience and unwavering dedication. As she continues her studies, she remains committed to her vision of making a significant impact through engineering and sustainable technologies. The UTS Early Entry Program, which recognises strong Year 11 results, has been instrumental in helping students such as Liv pursue their passions and shape a brighter future.