Carla Edgley
Carla Edgley
- Student type: Domestic
- Degree type: Degree
- Year commenced: 2014
- Degree(s): Bachelor of Science
- Major(s): Physiology
- Minor(s): Developmental biology
Why did you decide to study Science?
I decided to study science because of my fascination with the human body. I wanted to learn everything I could about the amazing ways the body keeps us alive every day, and the pathologies of the body that affect people. I also think a Science
degree is an excellent starting point for future studies, it challenges you every day to learn more as it is an ever evolving field. Studying science also allows you to develop critical thinking skills that can be applied to anything later in life and also serves to diversify your skill set, which is
an advantage in the work force.
What made you choose Monash University in Particular?
I chose Monash for two very separate reasons. I liked the fact that Monash was competitive in world rankings and had established an excellent reputation for itself around the world and in Australia, especially it's Science
department. The other reason I chose Monash is because I loved the atmosphere and attitudes of the students and teachers. All the teachers are passionate about their areas of expertise, and there is always a sense from being a Monash student that you are part of the Monash community. There are endless
activities and student clubs to enjoy that makes up a well rounded university experience.
What is your favourite aspect of studying Science?
My favourite aspect of studying Science is the ability to choose an area that you love and are passionate about, whilst also being able to try different areas in order to figure out what you are interested in, and also broaden
your education in different areas. Science allows you to pick the subjects you want to, with very few subjects being compulsory.
What do you plan to do when you graduate?
When I finish Science I plan to apply for a post graduate degree in Doctor of Medicine and Surgery and hopefully become a practising clinician.
If you were talking to a VCE student who wanted to study science, but wasn't sure which Uni to pick, what would you tell them about Monash?
Monash is a university that provides constant support for their students, not just in education but in all aspects of university life. There
are always multiple different places that provide assistance to students in areas ranging from education to all kinds of student needs at university. It is a university that has endless opportunities for students in whatever area their interests lie in. When studying at Monash you can always be confident
that they are teaching you at a high standard and equipping you with the skills you will need in the workforce.
What has been the highlight of your science degree so far?
The highlight of my Science degree has been studying the different human anatomy and the embryological development of every organ in our bodies. This included my experience of observing human cadavers in the Developmental
Biology laboratories and the large range of anatomy specimens that Monash are fortunate to have.
Do you have a favorite class/teacher/subject? What is it about this class/teacher/subject that you love?
During my time at Monash I thoroughly enjoyed undertaking the second year developmental biology units (DEV2011 and DEV2022). Everything we learnt in these units was very relevant to what I wish to do after graduating from Monash. The way the labs were structured
really helped my understanding of the content that was taught and was very hands on with dissections of different body parts and observing human pathologies which I found very interesting. The unit conveners were both so approachable and organized the unit in a way that made learning easy and very gratifying,
as well as really supporting students to learn the content and achieve highly in the subject.
What was the biggest misconception you had about studying science before you started your course?
Before studying Science at Monash I thought that a science degree would lead to very few careers, most of which would involve working in a laboratory. Now, having completed 2 years
of my course I have realized that the opportunities a Science degree from Monash gives you are really endless. There is such a wide range of fields you can enter on completion of your degree, whether it be research or non-research based.
Are you involved in any extra-curricular activities? What have you gained from these activities?
I participated in the science orientation day for new Science students this year at Monash. The experience really showed me how much I could pass on to new
and future students about what I loved about studying at Monash and my favourite things about my Science degree at Monash.
Anything else you would like to share about your Monash science experience?
Studying science at Monash has developed different skills I never thought I would be able to acquire. It has challenged me greatly at times, but I have always felt confident that
I was getting one of the best educational experiences in Australia by studying science at Monash. Studying studying Science at Monash allows you to make friends for life that share your same interests and career aspirations due to a high degree of lab component that you undertake in your degree and the
amount of time spent working with your peers.