Thomas Benning
Thomas Benning
- Student type: Domestic
- Degree type: Degree
- Year commenced: 2016
- Degree(s): Bachelor of Science
- Major(s): Genetics; Physiology
Why did you decide to study science?
I was always drawn towards scientific research. Something about figuring out the answers to questions no one knows the answers to and discovering how the natural world works has always called to me.
What made you choose Monash Uni in particular?
I was actually quite set on the University of Melbourne for most of high school but the National Youth Science Forum’s Next Step Programme brought me to Monash and I was very impressed by how modern and bright it is. Monash embraces the future, has an incredible campus culture and the name has prestige, it won me over instantly.
What's your favourite aspect of studying science?
The flexibility of the course. I love the freedom of the degree and changed majors multiple times as I tried to figure out what I’m most passionate about. Now that I have settled, I absolutely love what I’m studying and am totally confident in the path ahead of me.
What do you plan to do when you graduate?
I endeavour to be a research practitioner. I will be applying for MD-PhD combined courses in order to conduct medical research as a physician.
What has been the highlight of your science degree so far?
I have met so many amazing people during my classes and involvement with clubs, they have been so passionate and friendly and have taught me so much. The people are definitely the best aspect of studying science.
What's the biggest misconception you had about studying science before you started your course?
That it would be hard. I thought I was going to need to fight for three years straight, competing with the other students to get the marks to make my degree count, and that it would be a long and hard challenge. Now, four years later and another year yet to go, it has gone so quickly and my grades are better than I’d expected. It wasn’t hard, it wasn’t a fight, it was fun and I’ll miss it.
If you were to give some advice to someone who's thinking about studying at Monash Science, what would you say?
Do it and dive right in. Join all the clubs, introduce yourself to your classmates, talk to the academics and staff. All these people love what they’re doing and will make your life better. Also eat at the MSA’s Wholefoods restaurant, the food is delicious and the people there are the loveliest people around.
Give us a life hack or piece of advice you live by:
Get involved with a club that has an office, they’re the best places on campus to study. They’re convenient, quiet and sometimes they also have food.