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Catalyst for curiosity

The whole island was Emmaline Lonergan’s laboratory when she studied her Bachelor of Science.

Study | Lifestyle

Spending much of her childhood on a rural property at Flowerpot in Southern Tasmania, Emmaline Lonergan grew up with a deep appreciation for nature, particularly the marine environment of the nearby D’Entrecasteaux Channel.

She says this idyllic childhood settling was a significant factor leading her to study a Bachelor of Science at the University of Tasmania, majoring in genetics with a minor in plant science.

Born in Byron Bay and later moving to Darwin, Emmaline moved to Tasmania with her family when she was ten, settling on a 5-acre property at Flowerpot, where she developed an appreciation of Tasmania’s unique natural environment and a curiosity about the natural world.

"I am lucky enough to live near the Marine Discovery Centre in Woodbridge, which inspired an early interest in biology,” she said.

During my time at Elizabeth College, my science subjects and participation in the UTAS Science and Engineering Investigation Awards further developed this interest and inspired me to pursue a degree in biology."

Emmaline chose to study at the University of Tasmania because of the clear opportunities it would provide to do her studies in the unique Tasmanian environment she loved so dearly.

And as she was identified as a high achieving student, Emmaline was part of the University’s Catalyst Program, which allowed her to enhance her degree with additional scholarships, extracurricular experiences, special events and networking opportunities, which made her degree that much more rewarding.

The Catalyst Program in particular, really suited my interests, as it gave me more flexibility to choose subjects outside of the sciences. I really support the idea of providing opportunities for students to broaden their knowledge and enjoyed pursuing my interest in law and international relations within my science degree.

Emmaline said the field trips to iconic Tasmanian wilderness areas and marine environments were a highlight for her studies. She also had the opportunity to participate in the Dean’s Summer Research project, which gave her an opportunity to gain practical research skills in the laboratory over eight weeks.

“Studying at a smaller University really has its benefits,” she said. "It’s easy to get to know people, the lecturers and staff are incredibly friendly and supportive, and the city of Hobart has everything a capital can offer without the hassle of large city living."

You can drive ten minutes from the city and be in a world class natural wilderness on Kunanyi!”

Learn more about studying science Learn more about the Catalyst Program