Madeline Hamilton Combe

What did you do before you started your course?

I graduated form high school in 2011 and took a gap year to work and travel to Europe before beginning my degree

What motivated you to study this degree/major?

A love of nature, biological sciences, and marine conservation. I've always wanted to be a marine biologist, ever since I was in primary school. I grew up around the ocean and have many fond memories of rock pooling with my dad, fishing, swimming, snorkelling etc. I also believe we need more scientists in the world and thought this area is where I could make the biggest difference to this world.

What do you enjoy most about your degree?

Practically orientated - We went on multiple field trips for each subject to collect data and apply the knowledge we had learnt in the field. This also includes learning the relevant skills required to be good scientists. 

Conceptually based lectures rather than wrote learning/content heavy lectures, with relevant practicals to help solidify the knowledge learnt in class.

I feel a personal investment in the students by lecturers—they are always supportive, passionate, approachable and understanding. 

I love the content. The lectures/subjects are interesting, engaging and reflect up to date science that is relevant to the now. Having guest lecturers adds to this. 

Freedom. We have the freedom to form our own scientific methods and make our work reflect who we are as people. I felt like I was really encouraged to be creative, think critically, innovate and problem solve in my own way. 

Opportunity. There was so much opportunity to volunteer and gain experience during my undergraduate degree.

Why did you choose to study at UTS?

UTS has smaller class sizes, it's very practically orientated, and I was encouraged to pursue a science degree by Fraser Torpy, who was the first person I spoke to at a UTS open day. I found him to be passionate and invested in the education and success of the students at UTS. I didn't feel that at any other university I visited.

What is it like to study at UTS Science?

It's excellent, I've loved every minute of it. The university itself has a relaxed, friendly, stress free atmosphere. There are loads of genuine, like minded people who are passionate about what they do and it makes you feel really at home. I also found it so much less stressful going to a university located in the city where work and home was so accessible. 

At UTS, you don't feel like a number, you feel like an individual. You feel valued. You feel a part of something important. The research done in the science department is top quality. We are leading the world in some critical areas and the way my degree is structured means that you feel as though you are a part of that research, even if it is in the smallest way. For me, this is what I am passionate about and I really felt that there were so many resources at the disposal of people like me. There were seminars, volunteer opportunities, workshops, think hubs—everything you need to advance your skill set whilst still studying. We know that it's experience and practical skills that are important to employers and studying at UTS you just feel more prepared for the workforce, and certainly more capable/confident as an individual.

What advice you would give to students studying this degree?

Don't be afraid to talk to lecturers and have a sit down meeting with coordinators should you have concerns or questions. They are friendly and honest people and are here to help you. Use the resources at your disposal to the fullest. If you are serious about a career in science that starts now, in first year. Start volunteering, attending seminars and making yourself known. Let people see that you are passionate and hard working and they will help you.

What would you like to do once you complete your degree?

I am travelling and then have a research internship lined up this coming June, 2017. After that, getting a job doing anything in my field is my only plan. I'd also like to continue volunteering and gaining experience in the mean time.

What other activities do you participate/do at uni?

Volunteering. I was lucky enough to be offered an internship in the C3 lab and Centre For Design And Innovation. I also volunteered with a PhD student in the labs and play indoor soccer.