ANU - Science@ANU

Student Profile - Cat O'Donovan

Graduate Diploma in Science Communication, 2008

"[The highlight was] touring around Australia, doing school shows and seeing students of all ages enjoying science."

What is your thesis topic / field of interest?
I'm really interested in communicating science with the public, particularly on ecology / conservation / climate change issues.

Where have you come from to do this program?
I completed a BSc (Hons) at Durham University in the UK. I studied a range of science subjects - and I like knowing about science - but I'd rather engage with people than be an actual research scientist!

What experience have you gained while studying at CPAS?
Well the Graduate Diploma has been great so far - the courses and theory have been really good, and the Science Circus has been wonderful.

What have you learned about yourself during your time here?
I've had to learn about Australian humour, for one thing!

What do you see yourself doing upon completion of the program?
After I finish the Graduate Diploma (and a 3 month adventure being a jillaroo) I have a job awaiting me back in London as an accountant. I think the economic perspective I'll gain will be useful if I become a communicator on the environment in the future; in business it's a case of making the ‘green' choice the profitable one.

What has been the highlight of the program?
Definitely touring around Australia, doing school shows and seeing students of all ages enjoying science. I remember doing a show where we got the year 10 students acting as all the different parts of a coal fired power station - it's amazing how essentially the same demonstration can be done with 5 or 15 year olds by varying what you say and how you say it.

Why would you recommend this program to others?
I'd certainly recommend it - it offers such a broad introduction to different aspects of science communication, both theory and practice.

Benefits of being at the ANU / life in Canberra?
I love life in Canberra! The climate is great, and the lake paths are perfect for running. It has all the perks of a capital city but with fewer people!

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Lauren Binette

I love the part where how every single body of knowledge [in science] contributes to itself – it’s like every researcher is dedicated to a little dot, and they all come to form a complete circle. It’s so collaborative – everyone’s part of the team.

Elizabeth Evans

"This course has opened my eyes to science being involved in multitudes of disciplines, such as art, music, sport and drama."

Mandy Thoo

Science is just not as subjective as other disciplines. Water is made up of Hydrogen and Oxygen, and that’s that. I’ve taken philosophy classes, and we debate issues in circles, and for me, that’s frustrating. In science, there is always an answer; we just might not know what it is yet.

Sean Perera

Sean currently calls University House home, and enjoys the interaction with his fellow residents, believing it is important to surround yourself with support to help adjust to living in a new country.