Catriona Calantzis
The recent growth of the data analytics industry, on a global scale, makes it an especially exciting...
Q: What is your major?
A: Financial mathematics
Q: What did you do before you started your course?
A: I started at UTS this year; in 2016 I was a Year 12 student. I received an academic scholarship to Danebank Anglican school in Year 7 and completed my high school studies there.
Q: What motivated you to study this degree/major?
A: Ever since early primary school, maths has been my favourite subject. I find it really interesting and I'm always excited to learn about new concepts.
In my later high school years, I considered the possibility of a career in data analysis, which motivated me to choose this degree. The recent growth of the data analytics industry, on a global scale, makes it an especially exciting time to be studying this degree!
Q: What do you enjoy most about your degree?
A: I'm really enjoying my subjects so far, the content has been really interesting. Unlike school, it’s great to focus my study on maths-related subjects all day, which I love! I also like working with both staff and students who are passionate about maths and science.
Q: Why did you choose to study at UTS?
A: It was a bit of an impulsive decision but definitely one of the best I’ve ever made. I had initially chosen a similar course at another university but as the deadline for UAC applications approached I began to have doubts. Around 10 minutes before the cut-off time I logged on and after a few tense minutes of discussion, at 11:58pm (2 minutes before the deadline) I switched to this course. And I am so happy that I did!
Some of the factors that led to my decision were the new science facilities at UTS, the strong reputation of UTS science degrees, and definitely the location of the campus.
Q: What is it like to study at UTS Science?
A: I've had a great experience so far. All the subjects I'm doing have weekly computer labs, so I've been learning how to use different software programs to solve complex problems. The integration of science and technology is definitely one of the advantages of studying at UTS. It's also been really good to work with lecturers and tutors who are passionate about their subjects.
Q: What advice you would give to students studying this degree?
A: Here's my advice to anyone considering studying this degree: This is not your typical science degree, the only labs you'll go to will be computer labs. But if you love numbers and are interested in learning how to turn raw data into useful information, it's the degree for you.
Q: What would you like to do once you complete your degree?
A: I haven't decided yet what industry I'd like to work in, but I'm happy knowing that data analytics skills will provide me with many options and allow me to work in a variety of industries once I graduate.
Q: What other activities do you participate/do at uni?
A: I'm a member of the a few different clubs: the Science Society, Outdoor Adventure Club, Brew Societea. I also recently volunteered for the UTS:HELPS buddy program.
Q: Tell us something interesting about yourself
A: I really like reading and my absolute favourite books are 'A Tree Grows in Brooklyn' and 'Anna Karenina'. I also like to do jigsaw puzzles, cook pizza from scratch, and go bushwalking. My ultimate dream is to travel the world - I went on a short exchange trip to Japan while I was in high school and it was one of the best experiences of my life.
