From biology to engineering: Propel scholar finds her path in STEM

For Sophia, the path to engineering wasn't entirely straightforward.

Now studying a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Mechanical) with a Bachelor of Mathematical and Computer Sciences at Adelaide University, they first discovered a passion for mathematics during Year 12. 

Sophia’s maths teacher helped spark an interest in engineering-related mathematics, while a lifelong interest in cars provided another reason to explore mechanical engineering. 

But engineering wasn't initially the plan. 

After starting university in a biology-related degree, Sophia realised something was missing. 

Since changing direction, Sophia has discovered just how many opportunities engineering can offer – including a growing interest in nuclear technology and sustainable energy. 

Their Propel Scholarship has helped turn that interest into practical experience and a clearer sense of where an engineering career could lead. 

An exchange semester at the University of Liverpool gave Sophia the opportunity to learn more about the United Kingdom's nuclear industry and strengthened their interest in pursuing a career in the field. 

“The exchange semester gave me a greater insight into the UK's nuclear industry and developed a strong sense of direction in terms of pursuing a career related to nuclear technology.” 

Propel has also helped Sophia build connections with industry, including an upcoming internship with BAE Systems. 

The experience will provide an opportunity to put their university studies into practice and gain a better understanding of what a career in engineering could look like. 

For Sophia, the value of Propel extends beyond financial support. 

The program has helped build confidence, create connections with industry professionals and encourage them to take opportunities that might once have seemed out of reach. 

“Receiving this scholarship has given me the confidence and support to aim higher and not limit myself when considering the opportunities available to me.” 

That confidence has been particularly important as Sophia has navigated one of the biggest challenges of their studies: believing they have what it takes to become a successful engineer. 

Opportunities such as Propel and the upcoming internship have helped change that mindset.

Along the way, Sophia has also discovered that engineering is about much more than the maths and physics that first attracted them to the field. 

“It involves a range of additional skills such as collaboration, communication, problem-solving and innovative thinking, which I believe is what makes engineering such a fulfilling and exciting career path for me.” 

They have also gained a new appreciation for the scale of engineering opportunities available close to home. 

“It has been exciting to realise how many major engineering projects are happening locally and the opportunities available to students to become involved in them.” 

Looking ahead, Sophia hopes to build a career related to nuclear technology and contribute to the development of cleaner and more sustainable energy. 

With major engineering projects underway in South Australia, including the development of nuclear-powered submarines, they see exciting possibilities ahead. 

But for Sophia, the bigger goal is contributing their engineering skills to solving some of the challenges that will shape the future. 

“With energy being such an important part of our everyday lives, I would love to contribute to the development of cleaner and more sustainable energy technologies, particularly in the nuclear energy sector.” 

For other engineering students considering Propel, Sophia says the program offers an opportunity to go beyond the standard university experience and start building connections with the industry they hope to enter. 

“Not only does the program provide financial support that can open up opportunities outside of the standard university experience, it also provides valuable networking and in-industry opportunities, allowing students to connect with in-industry professionals and gain a better understanding of the field.”