Hi, my name is Barani and I'm currently pursuing a Bachelor of Biological Sciences at The University of Queensland. I'm also a Brisbane International Student Ambassador.
Why did you choose to study in Australia? And why UQ?
Australia has been a dream destination for me since childhood. I have always been fascinated about its diversity in terms of fauna and flora. This country is known to support almost 10% of the biological diversity on Earth, which is something I admire as a nature lover.
I had also heard from friends that Australia is a friendly country with warm-hearted people, and that is another reason that attracted me.
Following my achievement of high grades in my International Baccalaureate, I was looking for a reputed university that could boost my knowledge and develop my skills further in Science.
I chose to study at UQ due to its reputation as a research-intensive institution and its high ranking in biological sciences. I also chose UQ for its location. It is in Queensland, which is a state that is biologically diverse. This was exactly what I had been looking for.
What do you like most about living in Brisbane?
Without much thinking, I would say that I love the wonderful weather here. It is always so beautifully warm and bright. It did not take me much time to feel at home in Australia, mainly due to its liveliness and its multiculturalism. It was very easy for me to make friends as people were approachable, warm and welcoming.
While enrolled at UQ, have you undertaken an internship, volunteering position or industry placement?
I have been volunteering at the Centre of Integrative Legume Research at UQ for a year now. The research revolves around legumes, bacteria and the process of nodulation.
I have been working as a laboratory volunteer and this experience has not only helped me develop my lab skills and my knowledge, but it has also been an indirect aid in my studies. The people for whom I work in the lab have been so friendly and encouraging to bring the best out of me.
It has been a great experience and I look forward to learning more out of such wonderful opportunities provided by UQ to the students.