Student Profiles

Lindsay Thorpe

Why Civil & Structural Engineering?

When I was in year 12, I was undecided about what I wanted to study. It was not until I read through the job guide that my interest in Civil Engineering was ignited as I saw that civil engineers were in high demand and that there were vast opportunities in this field. I like the idea of being able to analyse the forces within large structures and then use these calculations to draw designs from sketches. I like the fact that when I graduate, I will be able to design structures and be able to tell my children and grandchildren, 'See this bridge, you father helped build that bridge,' which will bring me a great sense of achievement.

I chose to undertake a combined degree with Civil and Structural Engineering and a Bachelor of Computer and Mathematical Sciences as I believe a good knowledge of Mathematics and an ability to develop computer programs, will allow for calculations and analysis of a large structures to be easier.

What am I learning?

I have learnt how to analyse and compute the forces in large structures, and how to apply this knowledge to prescribe the right materials to use within structures. Team work has been a big part of my study and basically I am learning something new everyday.

Where will it take me?

I plan to apply for positions here and overseas. I hope I will work within teams of engineers, designing and building bridges, skyscrapers, roads, train lines, dams, weirs, pipelines, airports, ports, tunnels and other structures. I may also pursue a career in a lecturing or research.

There are numerous fields available to me, and because there will always be a need for Civil Engineers I will never be out of work.

Kit Ying Poon

Why Civil & Structural Engineering?

I am currently undertaking a combined degree in Civil & Structural Engineering and Economics. Living in Hong Kong in my early childhood, I watched high rise buildings develop around me, I originally wanted to design buildings and become an architect but realised I was more interested in how to keep a building up. Studying economics helps me in decision making and to better understand the needs of the community.

What am I learning?

Subjects that I am studying include Water, Geotechnical, Environmental and Structural Engineering. The fundamental concepts learnt in these subjects are interesting but the highlights are the projects and hands on experience gained in practicals. I am learning how to design a water distribution system, open channels and multi-storey buildings. I am exposed to environmental issues and study the different soil types in Adelaide. I am challenged to come up with innovative solutions to open-ended problems. Projects also improve my group work, leadership and management skills.

The University of Adelaide not only provides top quality education but also provides many opportunities for students to get involved and to get the most out of their uni life. I am actively involved in fencing and a member of The University of Adelaide Concrete Canoe team. I have also been an undergraduate student representative for two years.

Where will it take me?

With a Civil and Structural Engineering degree the options are endless. I look forward to designing and managing projects once I have completed my degrees, unravelling unconventional designs and concepts on the way. I also want to gain experience in Australia and overseas. In my later years I hope to use knowledge and experience gained in the field to undertake research.

My goals include working with developing communities, ensuring they have access to basic necessities such as clean water, as well as innovative infrastructure that can withstand natural disasters.

James Farrall

Why Civil Engineering?

I have always had an interest in the built environment as well as the engineered systems that drive society. I have always wanted to contribute to society by furthering technology and infrastructure, and the fact that the basic requirements for human existence such as shelter, transport and water, are key aspects dependant on civil engineering, I was inspired to be involve.

I love maths and science and enjoy exploring these topics. I did however find the theoretical side less interesting than the practical aspects which made civil engineering a logical progression for my studies.

What am I learning?

I have learnt exciting topics such as water engineering and treatment processes to structural mechanics and design. There are excellent practical facilities that enable students to experience a 'hands on' education. There are also many extra-curricula opportunities, such as the concrete canoe challenge, that allowed other students and I to think and solve problems independently.

These skills that will be applicable for my entire career.

Where will it take me?

With demand so high for civil and environmental engineers, my degree will take me anywhere. There are vast opportunities in engineering fields ranging from water distribution and sustainable design, to advanced structural engineering and mining. The number of different career opportunities are fantastic ensuring challenges will be available throughout my working life.

My goals for the future are to travel, and work in Australia as part of a management team or establish my own consultancy firm