By Cayley Parker, 22 October, 2026
When Liliana Kleber began studying QUT’s Bachelor of Science (Environmental Science and Biological Sciences), she didn’t expect it would lead to an opportunity connected to one of Australia’s largest STEM workforce initiatives.
Now in her second year, Liliana has been selected for the Propel Australian Submarine Scholarship Program, a professional development initiative that has connected her with students, industry opportunities and career pathways she may not otherwise have encountered.
Discovering an unexpected opportunity
Liliana first came across the Propel program through the QUT student newsletter.
At the time, she wasn't actively looking for an opportunity connected to the submarine industry, but the program immediately stood out.
"It caught my attention because it was an opportunity to explore an area of STEM that I probably wouldn't have encountered through my degree alone," Liliana said.
There was also a personal connection. Before beginning her studies at QUT, Liliana served in the Royal Australian Navy.
"I was interested in the opportunity to work within a Defence initiative again from a different perspective," she said.
Bringing a different STEM perspective
When Liliana applied, she knew she wasn't the typical candidate, with the program predominantly seeking students from engineering and physics backgrounds.
"Being selected as an Environmental Science and Biology student made the opportunity feel particularly meaningful. It was exciting to be able to bring a different STEM perspective to the program," Liliana said.
Since joining Propel, Liliana has participated in networking and professional development workshops while connecting with students from universities across Australia.
"I've developed a much better understanding of networking and communication, including how to communicate my strengths and build authentic professional relationships," Liliana said.
"I've really enjoyed connecting with students from different STEM disciplines and universities and hearing about their experiences, interests and career goals," she said.
Looking beyond graduation
Perhaps the biggest takeaway from the experience has been the way it has broadened Liliana's view of what a STEM career can look like.
"It's given me a better understanding of how the skills developed through science can be applied across different industries and roles," Liliana said.
"This program has made me much more aware of the range of career pathways that are possible with a STEM degree."
Advice for other students
For students considering opportunities beyond the classroom, Liliana's advice is simple: don't rule yourself out.
"Apply, even if you don't think you're the typical candidate. Even if stepping outside your comfort zone feels intimidating, those experiences can often be the most rewarding and can open doors you may not have expected," she said.
For Liliana, opportunities like Propel are an important part of the university experience.
"One of the best things about studying STEM at QUT is that there are so many opportunities beyond the classroom," she said.
Ready to explore Science at QUT?
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