Emmanuel’s science and journalism double degree

Why are you studying science and journalism?

I have always been interested in animals how much we already know about them and yet how much more we are to discover about them. I am drawn to the process of discovering more about our world and that is why I chose this course. I also wanted to somehow combine that interest with my other interest in writing. I believe there is a space where both science and writing meet and journalism seems to be the perfect vehicle for that.

Why did you choose to study at QUT?

I chose QUT because it was in Queensland where the biodiversity is unique and there are many different climates within the state. QUT also offered a combination of science and journalism which I found suited my interests to a tee.

'Real world' means to be adaptable to the changes in our environment. The only constant is change and I think QUT not only equips us with the right knowledge but with the right attitude to learn constantly and be aware of how the world is reacting to our field of study. I have definitely become more confident in not just my hard skills but my soft skills as well. From researching real-world problems of the theories we learn, to actually engaging in debates over these problems, we become more prepared for what the real world has in store for us.

My favourite parts of my course are going out into the forests to do surveys on the trees in QUT's Samford Ecological Research Facility (SERF). It is definitely better to visualise the concepts once we are out there collecting data. I do not think I can get to experience this side of Brisbane in any other way.

I really enjoy that Brisbane isn't as busy and crowded as other metropolitan cities while not being too disconnected from the world. I like the weather here - it can get hot but not as humid as in Singapore. I also think that I suit the pace of life here very well.

What support have you received from QUT?

I rely on HiQ a lot, and to know that there is a place to go when I am lost in any matter really gives me peace of heart. I also appreciate the counselling services on offer and its accessibility really helped me overcome social barriers that would otherwise stop me from seeking help. The support really gave me guidance at the right time.

I have a QUT International Merit Scholarship. I think it has really helped me in making this course accessible to me. I think I would not have been as ready to live overseas for 3.5 years if not for the scholarship. It also gave me the confidence needed that I am more than capable of completing this degree, which I am grateful for.

Living overseas is a hard decision but can be easier if you use the support given to you and really intentionally push yourself out there. It really gets better after the initial pushing out of your comfort zone.

Anything else you’d like to add?

I would recommend QUT to others. QUT gave me an opportunity to meet a diverse group of people with diverse backgrounds. I think compared with my friends from other universities, I can say that I am fortunate to have the opportunity to mix with all kinds of people here. I believe QUT, as an institution, is really intentional in the way they make learning holistic and I appreciate that.