Jenny Evripidou
UTS has provided me with the skills and experience that employers are after in my field
Being a second-generation Australian with Greek heritage, my childhood was filled with family events and picnics, particularly trips to the seaside, where we would spend hours at the beach or along the water. From a young age, my parents wanted me to find myself a job that offered stability and opportunities – for them, studying marine science was a “hobby” rather than an occupation. Nevertheless, I persevered with my passion and studies. In my final years of high school, I opted for subjects that would expand my understanding of the scientific world. Despite the intense workload and long hours, I managed to finish my HSC with various band 6 marks, and a nomination for the design SHAPE Awards at the Powerhouse Museum for my Design and Technology Major Project on marine pollution and marine wildlife conservation.
I was always a very curious and inquisitive child. I spent much of my childhood at the beach and in the water and I often found myself wondering about the mysteries that the ocean had to offer, concealed deep below its surface. I spent my afternoons watching documentaries about the ocean and marine ecosystems and continued to develop my interest and passion for marine biology. At around 10 years old, I decided that I wanted to work in an area that had something to do with ocean environments. Even at this young age, I had a strong passion and love for the ocean and was determined to make a difference. Since then, I have volunteered and worked at various marine care and rescue organisations, which have only heightened my interest in this field!
I’m passionate about marine conservation. For me, preserving the amazing marine wildlife that Australia and the world have to offer can allow future generations of young scientists to discover and learn about the ocean, much like how I was fortunate enough to be able to discover when I was younger. Too often, the marine landscape is neglected or not set as a priority by councils and governments, so to be a promoter of marine studies and the importance of research and conservation of the marine environments that we have now for our future is a great passion of mine.
I decided to study at UTS because the faculty of science, and the marine biology course, offered the most in-depth and hands-on experience, and I felt the skills I would be able to develop while studying at UTS would assist me in the real-life working industry. Theoretical knowledge is an important component of any degree, but in addition to teaching theory it is the practical experience that UTS offers that really sets UTS apart from the rest. UTS has provided me with the skills and experience that employers are after in my field. When applying for opportunities, the practical skills and experience I have gained while studying at UTS has set me apart from other candidates who lack this hands on experience.
One of the many highlights of my studies at UTS has been learning about fish biology and the marine rockpool environment through practical lab dissections and elaborate field trips. While COVID-19 has meant that some of the field trips or opportunities during my studies have changed, I would not say that it has detracted from my studies at UTS. The academics at UTS always go above and beyond to make sure that students are able to gain as much knowledge and experience from field trips and practical classes as possible. During COVID-19 academics have assisted students in getting the most out of their studies with in-depth instructional videos and discussion board forums where we have the chance to really understand the content of our degree and develop important insights into the scientific concepts. These practical classes have stood out to me as a highlight of my studies. They have enabled me to apply theoretical knowledge in a fun and educational way and have helped me develop skills valued by the industry that I can use throughout my career.
Studying at UTS has opened my eyes to lots of different parts of the marine ecosystem and it has drawn my attention to the need for conservation, whether it be within Australia or across the globe. Studying a Bachelor of Marine Biology at UTS has given allowed me to develop the drive and skills necessary to make a difference. In the future, I hope to continue to expand my knowledge and use what I have learnt to make a difference.
Studying a Bachelor of Marine Biology at UTS offers hands-on-experience and equips you with a wide variety of skills that employers look, all whilst being incredibly engaging and of consistently high quality in terms of course structure. Don’t underestimate the difference a quality education can make for your future. A degree from UTS in Marine offers incredibly in-depth learning and valuable opportunities that will assist you greatly in your career.
Don’t be afraid or embarrassed to try new things. Whether it’s a degree you have a passion for, but others are hesitant about, a university society that you want to join, or even someone you want to talk to in a class, don’t be afraid to seize every opportunity, because that’s what university is all about!
