Sophie Palmer

Sophie Palmer
- Student type: Domestic
- Degree type: Honours
- Year commenced: 2023
- Degree(s): Bachelor of Science (Honours)
- Major(s): Geographical science
- Minor(s): Earth and environmental sciences
Why did you decide to study science?
I chose to study science because it was such a broad area of study. For me, science is everywhere and everything and at the end of year 12, I was really unsure as to what I wanted to study. So, I chose something that allowed me to explore and learn about all different areas.
What made you choose Monash Uni in particular?
I chose Monash because of its subject choice flexibility. I wanted a degree that I could shape into anything I wanted and Monash really gave me that option. I loved that it had more lab time than other universities while also allowing me to structure my degree in a way that worked best for me.
What's your favourite aspect of studying science?
I study Environmental Science, so for me, I really love being able to look outside and deeply understand what I see in the world around me. I think for lots of scientists, it can be a struggle not being able to always physically experience what they are studying, but I am so lucky in that I can look outside and see the trees and dirt and can understand how these underlying systems are working.
What has been the highlight of your science degree so far?
The highlight of my degree thus far was definitely studying abroad at Uppsala University in Sweden. I spent the second semester of 2022 there studying climate change leadership and it was the most amazing experience. I would recommend studying abroad to absolutely everyone, as it truly completes your university experience and allows you to meet people from across the globe who have similar interests. I have friends for life in many different countries and I can't wait to apply my new experiences and knowledge to my studies here.
What's the biggest misconception you had about studying science before you started your course?
Probably that science has a very individual way of working. I could have never imagined the amount of collaboration and connection between people within different areas of science.
If you were to give some advice to someone who's thinking about studying at Monash Science, what would you say?
I would tell them not to worry about choosing a major or knowing exactly what you want to do after university. There are so many opportunities to explore and decide what you want to pursue within your degree that you definitely don't need to know what you want to do after you're finished school. You learn so much in your degree that is not related to science, that you will be well equipped to choose your future career when the time comes.
Give us a life hack or piece of advice you live by?
Stick up for yourself and never be afraid to make your voice heard.
Do you have a chosen career in mind? If so, what kind of job are you currently aspiring to?
Not really at this stage. I'm definitely figuring it out as I go! If you had asked me a year ago, I would have probably said consultancy, but now research is on the table or even a government graduate program.