Finding your own path to a career in research

Rachel didn't always know she wanted to pursue immunology. After graduating high school, she knew that she loved science but was unsure about what career path she wanted to take. The Bachelor of Science allowed her to explore her broad interests in biology, chemistry and psychology before deciding on a specific major or pathway.

In the Bachelor of Science students can choose from more than 40 majors that encompass the full range of science, technology, engineering, maths and biological sciences. If, like Rachel, they're uncertain of their desired career path, students don't need to decide right away – they have the time and the flexibility to find their passions.

Rachel was also drawn to the location of Parkville campus, which is not only close to the CBD but also lies within the Melbourne Biomedical Precinct – the largest biomedical precinct in the southern hemisphere, home to several hospitals and leading scientific research institutes.

Gaining a first-hand taste of research

Rachel was soon selected for the esteemed Metcalf Scholarship Program, which she first heard about through the Bachelor of Science newsletter. She then took part in a paid placement at Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research (WEHI).

"Specifically, I worked in a laboratory in the Infectious Diseases and Immune Defence division at WEHI, contributing to work on the COVID Profile study. This was amazing, as I gained valuable laboratory experience and learnt from leading researchers.”

"My role included assisting with the processing of samples collected from participants who were previously infected with COVID-19 and analysing these samples.”

Thanks to this placement, Rachel was able to see first-hand how researchers apply their knowledge of science to address real-world problems to improve health outcomes. The placement also gave her the chance to apply her knowledge of immunology and biology more broadly to a real-world application and gain valuable laboratory skills.

For Rachel, this opportunity confirmed that she would like to pursue further study in immunology and helped her to understand the many career pathways available in this area.

Student life at Melbourne

Beyond the classroom, science at Melbourne allowed Rachel to meet many enthusiastic and inspiring people through her classes as well as participating in volunteering, clubs and societies.

Rachel studied alongside like-minded students with diverse backgrounds pursuing a wide range of pathways from mathematical physics to criminology – each of whom offered different knowledge and perspectives.

She also gained inspiration from the University's lecturers and tutors, each with a passion and deep understanding of their discipline. These globally renowned academics and researchers are deeply connected to industry, meaning Rachel and others had plenty of opportunities both in and outside the classroom to gain practical experience and build their professional network.

“My advice for students starting at university,” Rachel says, “is to be open-minded and get involved in as many experiences and opportunities as you can.”