World Engineering Day: Hear from the next generation of engineers

To celebrate World Engineering Day and International Women's Day 2024, we asked our undergraduate students what inspired them to study Engineering and any advice they would give to their younger selves.  

Nicole Lai  

Bachelor of Engineering Honours (Civil Engineering) / Bachelor of Commerce  

The beauty of mathematics drew me to Engineering. While people often like to bring up how they have never used the Pythagoras theorem after school, Engineering proves how mathematical principles serve as the foundation for the world we live in.   

To most women, engineering isn't an obvious career choice, but our perseverance, ambition and creativity make us the perfect engineers.  

Tamara Mason   

Bachelor of Engineering Honours (Aeronautical Engineering)  

My motivation for engineering is fuelled by my passion for problem-solving, desire to bring creativity to innovation processes and a long-term interest in space exploration.  

My advice to young women who want to pursue STEM is to embrace all challenges, trust your abilities, and never let anyone dictate the limits of your dreams.

Anusha Suresh  

Bachelor of Engineering Honours (Software Engineering)  

I developed a passion for Software Engineering in Year 9 after winning a coding competition with one of my best friends at a Women in STEM event. I was curious about developing solutions and presenting my unique perspective.  

My younger self was daunted to enter an evolving landscape of Software Engineering and the stereotype of a male-dominated industry.

Alexia Osler  

Bachelor of Engineering Honours (Biomedical Engineering) / Bachelor of Science (Medical Science)  

When deciding what to study at university, I knew I wanted to challenge myself. I wanted a career that would take me places and put me out of my comfort zone, but ultimately, I wanted to help people and improve their quality of life.   

If I could go back and give myself advice, I would say back yourself. Have confidence, and don't doubt your ability. Putting yourself out there and taking opportunities will lead you to great things!  

Alison Carr  

Bachelor of Engineering Honours (Mechanical and Space Engineering) / Bachelor of Science (Physics)  

Engineering is for everyone and is a unique chance to stretch your problem solving ability. I would tell my younger self to enjoy the journey and don't let anyone scare you off.

Work hard and do what you enjoy, no matter how many people question whether it's for you.

Kelly Leung  

Bachelor of Engineering Honours (Aeronautical Engineering) / Bachelor of Commerce  

I love design technology and physics, so I decided to study Aeronautical Engineering. Graduating from high school in 2019 might have seemed daunting, but looking back, I have no regrets – the key was to 'embrace discomfort'.