By Keisha Nikola - Indonesia, 18 February, 2026
I've always been interested in maths, IT, and business but didn't want to commit to one area specifically. The Bachelor of Data Science at QUT brings all three together in a real-world course. 'Real world' means stepping into the world outside of your studies. University is a kind of simulated safe space where you can practise, experiment, and make mistakes with guidance. In contrast, the real world is where variables aren't controlled, sometimes instructions are not as clear, and outcomes really matter. My coursework helps me prepare for that transition because we work on messy datasets and tackle problems with tools that are usually used in the industry.
The Faculty of Science Dean's Scholars Program also gave me many real-world opportunities to broaden my network with leaders in the industry and have many friends within the community. The program helped me increase my leadership skills including by attending the 5th Global Peace Summit in Thailand.
Attending the Global Peace Summit
I participated in the 5th Global Peace Summit, organised by the Humanitarian Affairs Asia, and held at the United Nations Conference Centre, Bangkok. This funded experience brought together emerging leaders from more than 40 countries to engage our critical thinking and empathy through listening and discussions. We heard from speakers who had shared their powerful lived experiences to prompt awareness and meaningful discussions that would lead to peacebuilding initiatives.
I applied for this opportunity through a notice from the Faculty of Science Dean’s Scholar newsletter, which described the summit as a valuable professional development opportunity. I thought of it as a gold mine of opportunity. I was selected as one of three Dean’s Scholars to receive a grant and represent QUT. Dean’s Scholars from other faculties and College of Excellence members also attended thanks to QUT funding.
I had the honour to represent QUT, and two countries, Australia and Indonesia. Being able to contribute from both perspectives was particularly meaningful, as it allowed me to bridge cultures and share insights shaped by my international background from the country that raised and shaped me (Indonesia) and a country that has given me opportunities to grow (Australia).
Peace and changed perspectives
My favourite part of the summit was the opportunity to listen and engage with the speakers and other delegates. It challenged my perspectives by listening to speakers who shared their lived experiences. 
Their struggles, resilience and hearing how they took steps, one at a time, towards a shared goal – peace – led me to reflect more deeply on the state of the world today. After listening to the speakers, some of my perceptions changed. I realised that I had viewed the world as peaceful enough simply because I have the privilege of being surrounded by safety and stability, far away from conflict. I realised that peace is needed now more than ever, we cannot simply wait for it.
The summit was also a major milestone for me. As I heard one of the delegates say, “this is expensive networking.” I realised that I had the privilege of experiencing an opportunity that not many people have access to. Engaging with speakers and delegates from different backgrounds broadened my perspective and deepened my understanding of what exists beyond my “safe bubble”. By participating in the summit, I was pushed outside my comfort zone. I had never imagined myself networking with so many people from such diverse backgrounds. The summit showed me that I am capable of far more than I had ever imagined.
How the summit shaped my future in data science
As data science student, I have often considered ethical responsibility within the usage of data, science, and technology, but had not previously explored these ideas through the lens of peacebuilding. This summit offered a great chance for me to expand my understanding and develop my global perspective on ethical leadership and social impact. In my studies and my future career in data science, I plan to approach my work with greater ethical awareness, empathy, and responsibility for its impact. Based on what I learned from the speakers at the summit, I now understand that meaningful peacebuilding begins with everyday actions. As a Humanitarian Affairs Peace Ambassador, I plan to apply what I have learnt in my current circle of influence.
