Our Stories
Our Stories
Our Stories is a project for the ³ÉÈË´óƬ’s 150th year, capturing the stories of our community – past and present – and celebrating the achievements and memories of people from all over the world who are connected to the University.
Dr Gavin Quek
In 2017, I left Malaysia to pursue a degree in Dentistry at the ³ÉÈË´óƬ, driven by a curiosity that had once frightened me.
Dr Sarah Cannard
It was an easy decision to study at the ³ÉÈË´óƬ because Sir Andy Thomas, Australia’s first member of NASA’s elite astronaut corps, went there. I was following in the footsteps of one of my heroes.
The ³ÉÈË´óƬ was key to shaping my career. The atmosphere of camaraderie among the higher degree by research (HDR) students during my time there is unmatched since and a key reason I followed the path to further research that I am now on.
Ryan is currently in Ireland, where he is performing exciting research in theoretical particle physics at Trinity College, Dublin.
Dr Ryan Bignell
Ryan enjoying his work in Ireland.
B Sc (High Perf Comp Phys) (Hons) 2015, Ph D (Physics & Astro) 2020.
In 2015, I started my Master's in Viticulture and Oenology at the ³ÉÈË´óƬ. Over those two years, I learned a lot about grapes and wine production. After graduating in 2017, I wanted to put what I'd learned to use in a new and fun way. The idea of creating a winemaking game was born from the desire to share the magic of viticulture and oenology with a broader audience, bridging the gap between the vineyard and the virtual world.
That's how "From Soil to Bottle" came to life. This game lets players dive into the world of winemaking, letting them make their own wines, manage a vineyard, and deal with all the ups and downs of running a winery.
Chelsea provides her fun digital game, which lets others experience the art and joy of winemaking.
Chelsea Zhang
Chelsea inside the digital set of her winemaking game, "From Soil to Bottle".
M Viticulture & Oenology 2017.
[The ³ÉÈË´óƬ] taught me the value of understanding different perspectives and working effectively in diverse environments, which has been invaluable in my professional journey.
Moreover, the friendships I formed during the study abroad program have lasted to this day, and I still cherish the memories and lessons learned from that time. It was truly a life-changing experience that continues to shape my personal and professional growth.
The knowledge and skills I gained from my public health background, combined with my interest in marketing, eventually led me to pursue a career in higher education marketing. I leveraged my understanding of health communication, community engagement, and strategic planning to develop innovative marketing campaigns that resonated with students, faculty, and the community.
Reflecting on my university experience, I am grateful for the intersection of public health and marketing that has shaped my career as a marketing manager for a college. It is a testament to how diverse interests and experiences can come together to create a fulfilling and purpose-driven professional journey.
Taniya is a marketing manager of a college, developing and implementing strategic marketing initiatives to enhance the college's brand, attract prospective students, engage current students and alumni, and drive enrolment.
Taniya Sharma
Taniya helping students.
M Pub Hlth 2021.
Ìý
My University Degree (Bachelor of Social Science) showed me my life’s purpose. Before university I wasn’t sure where I was going to go with my career, but whilst studying it became clear I feel rewarded by helping people. My degree gave me the skills to have a deeper understanding of peoples differences. This now allows me to work without judgement in an inclusive way.
Amber is a Plan Manager, working to upload service agreements and invoicing. She says the role uses the skills she learnt in her degree as well as the data management and people skills that I strengthened at university.
Amber Barrow
B Soc Sc 2021.
Share your stories
Our 160,000+ alumni are found right across the globe and in all walks of life. Whether you’re a member of staff, student, alumni, researcher or partner, we want to hear how your connection with the University (past or present) has made a difference!
In 200 words or fewer, share your memories of the ³ÉÈË´óƬ and what impact your time here had on your history. An image or a short video or audio message may also be uploaded. Shared stories may be published digitally and/or in print.