Selena Peng

Bachelor of Science student, Selena Peng, explains the importance of Breadth subjects and gives her advice to current and future students.

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The learning resources available at the University of Melbourne were one of the biggest influences for me to study here. The high-tech laboratory facilities and the dedication to science shown by enthusiastic academics during Open Day talks really appealed to me. There are also numerous research facilities partnered with the University of Melbourne, which afford students more opportunities to network with project managers and senior demonstrators.

I knew I liked science but I wasn’t sure which specific field I wanted to study or work in, the best advice I can give would be to get more involved with University events such as career talks, discovery tours or club and societies, so you get a bit more understanding of what kind of person you are and what you are really interested in doing. This will definitely help you with course planning.

I was planning to major in Human Physiology in my second year, however I changed my mind when I actually considered the lecture contents. Pharmacology is fascinating in its interdisciplinary nature. The contents will cover how drugs interact with different body systems and what are the signalling pathways and side effects of the drug. More importantly, I strongly believe that I will be motivated to do research and self-directed learning outside of class for pharmacology.

I have studied Japanese as breadth for nearly two years. I found that my breadth subjects have enabled me to appreciate the non-scientific parts of society. Earlier this year I received a scholarship (Global Scholars Award) to study abroad in Japan. This scholarship enabled me to reduce some of the financial burden of travelling and studying overseas. While I was in Japan, I participated in many traditional Japanese activities and strengthened my intercultural communication. It was a fantastic experience!

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