Mia Deans channels her passion for sustainability into her work, viewing climate change as a crucial humanitarian issue. She works at the intersection of environmental science and social change, focusing on resource efficiency, decarbonisation, and social impact in Design & Construction. Her work adheres to Infrastructure Sustainability and Green Star Buildings standards.

Mia's role covers all aspects of sustainability, including material selection, carbon management, and stakeholder engagement. Her double degree from Monash University provided a solid understanding of environmental interactions and critical evaluation skills, enabling her to implement sustainable solutions. This education also instilled discipline and time management skills, helping her continue to learn and grow in her career. The National Association for Women in Construction (NAWIC) nominated Mia for the 'Young Achiever' award in 2023 and 2024.

“Double degrees at Monash allow you to learn across disciplines and figure out your strengths”

How was her time studying at Monash?

Monash University offered Mia the chance to pursue a double degree, enabling her to explore her diverse interests, including studying at the unique School of Earth, Atmosphere, and Environment (EAE). She fondly recalls the EAE camp at Camp Rumbug, learning from passionate lecturers like Vanessa Wong and enjoying hands-on labs. Writing for "Lot's Wife" was a highlight since it allowed her to connect with students from other disciplines. Plus, Monash is where he met her partner!

How did her course help with professional development?

Mia's science degree sparked a fascination with the natural world and its interactions with people. It taught her to critically evaluate studies and facts, considering sample sizes, biases, and methodologies. This analytical foundation has been invaluable in her sustainability work, where she implements solutions mindful of interconnected systems. Monash's degree also instilled confidence through time management, discipline, and curiosity, all crucial for continuous learning on the job.

“My science degree gave me an appreciation and understanding of how our natural environment interacts with itself and the people who inhabit it”

Messages, advice and tips for current and future students

For future students, nourish your varied interests, even if they don't seem connected right now. Double degrees at Monash allow you to explore across disciplines and discover your strengths. Over the years, Mia learned that careers are often not as linear as expected, and skills from your degrees can be unexpectedly helpful.

She remembers a billboard at Monash that said: "30% of students will work in a job that doesn't exist yet," which gave her confidence that she'd find the right path if she kept following her passions.