Dear Students, I hope this message finds you well and that you are settling into Autumn session here at UOW.
Be curious, be creative
Last Thursday, I had the honour of participating in a UOW Alumni ‘Knowledge Series’ event at UOW Science Space, where we celebrated creativity, innovation and entrepreneurship. Our special guest was Dr Alex Badran, UOW graduate and founder of financial tech company Spriggy, a popular pocket money card and app for children. I loved his words of wisdom, “It takes a village to build a great business, not just the founders.” Alex’s story is one of incredible courage and perseverance, and he embodies so much of what is remarkable about UOW.
UOW is truly a place of creativity, innovation and entrepreneurship and we offer many free talks, events and courses where you can find the inspiration and skills to pursue your dreams, just as Alex has done. I encourage you to make the most of these opportunities during your time here.
Unlock the Cosmos: Join the team of Science Space Ambassadors
I’d like to invite all our first or second-year students with an Education or Science degree to consider volunteering at UOW Science Space, a unique place at the intersection of science and technology. Science Space owes part of its success to a small but dedicated team of Science Space Ambassadors. These Ambassadors are carefully selected from Education or Science students trained in the art of science communication, presentation and front-of-house role’s. It is a fantastic opportunity to develop valuable skills and experience and build your confidence and resume. To learn more about becoming a Science Space Ambassador, please explore the information available on UOWx.
Let’s Go Forward to create your future
This week sees the next instalment of our Let’s Go Time orientation season. Called Let’s Go Forward, it consists of various events and activities boosting your job-seeking, resume-building, essay-writing and presenting skills. Even if you’re just starting your studies, chatting with older students or coaches about where your degree might take you can be motivating and helpful.
One of this week’s major events is our Graduate Careers Expo, taking place in UniHall on Tuesday 21 March, between 10.30 am and 2.30 pm. It will bring together students and major employers from across the country to network and discuss potential career options, internships and graduate recruitment opportunities. Do not miss this one!
Your Let’s Go Forward checklist
- Learn about Census date and what it means for you.
- Register for UOWx101 and join a UOWx Interactive Seminar.
- Visit the Graduate Careers Expo or chat to the careers team.
- Check out other upcoming careers and employability events and programs.
- Book an academic consultation to help you choose your major or minor (if your course requires one).
15-minute cities – what a wonder
On a different note, I’d like to draw your attention to an op-ed by two UOW lecturers, Dr Christopher Patterson and Dr Lance Barrie. In it, they discuss the concept of ‘15-minute cities’, an idea that revolves around having most of the essential life needs (for study, work, food, health and entertainment) within a short walk or bike ride from our homes. According to science, such proximity and convenience translate to better physical and mental health, promoting inclusion, connection and healthier communities and environments.
I am quite proud of how our campuses are designed – they’re literally our 15-minute cities, would you agree?
I wish you all a productive and enjoyable week ahead.
My best,
Trish