Chandana Anand
Chandana Anand
- Student type: Domestic
- Degree type: Degree
- Year commenced: 2017
- Degree(s): Bachelor of Science
- Major(s): Astrophysics
Why did you decide to study science?
My initial plan was to go into a different course, however in year 10, I took an astrophysics project that I thoroughly enjoyed and decided to pursue that. It made me question everything I wanted to do after high school and the type of work I want to do, and I haven’t looked back since.
What made you choose Monash Uni in particular?
Monash offers astrophysics as a major and is one of the very few universities in Australia to do so, and I believe the only one in Victoria! It also has an incredible team of researchers in the field, as well as a staggering amount of astrophysics resources, so Monash was the best choice.
What's your favourite aspect of studying science?
My favourite aspect is lab work. It helps me understand what I’m learning about in lectures as I am a hands-on learner, and actually applying the knowledge helps so much. It’s also a collaborative space, and the discussions that come up also consolidate our learning.
What do you plan to do when you graduate?
I am unsure as of yet, but I am hoping to do an honours degree in astrophysics, and go into research, specifically in the field of gravitational waves!
What has been the highlight of your science degree so far?
The biggest highlight has been the research projects that I have completed! They were in the gravitational waves field and it was a dream of mine since I first came across this in year 10, and it has been a surreal and rewarding experience.
What's the biggest misconception you had about studying science before you started your course?
The biggest misconception was that it would be the same structure for everyone in the course. It’s a three-year course, and I was initially very determined to finish it in that time but taking a step back and letting myself get involved in other university activities, both in academic and extracurriculars, has really helped shape my university journey. Everyone has their own pace and way of going about things, and there is no right or wrong way, just the way that is best suited for you.
If you were to give some advice to someone who's thinking about studying at Monash Science, what would you say?
I would say go for it! While there are so many different majors under Science, it feels like a community, and there are a multitude of opportunities that arise when you can see what kinds of areas you want to go into in the future. The resources at Monash are astounding, and the people who teach it are passionate, and it all makes for a truly worthwhile experience.
Give us a life hack or piece of advice you live by
Try to be open to new experiences and people, even just making a small effort can go a long way in helping you learn something. (I’m a nervous and shy person and sometimes this can be hard, but it is something I always keep in mind!)