ANU - Science@ANU

Student Profile - Virgine Larrede

MSc (Versailles), at ANU on exchange, 2008

"I’ve done [a group project] on the influence of science fiction on peoples’ views of artificial intelligence, and another on the ethics of testing children."

What is your thesis topic / field of interest?
I'm really interested in biology, and in particular communication of biological knowledge to the public.

Where have you come from to do this program?
I did science at High School, and then I did tourism at university in Paris. I worked for a while in that, but then I wanted to get back into science, so I came to science communication. I'm enrolled in an MSc in science communication at Versailles (just outside Paris), and I'm at the ANU on exchange. I'm particularly interested in learning about science and culture!

What experience have you gained while studying at CPAS?
It's been really interesting studying here - I like the way the subjects are presented in class, it is always easy to relate it to reality - which wasn't always the case at Versailles. I think that there is a lot going on in science communication in Australia. It's also really interesting to see the different perspectives on science communicators, from scientists and non-scientists.

What have you learned about yourself during your time here?
Well I've learned that I like Australia! I feel like there are more career opportunities in science communication here than in France. People are involved and make things happen - and I really like that!

What do you see yourself doing upon completion of the program?
I'm probably going back to France - but I'm not sure yet! I want to set up scientific tours of Paris for tourists - there is a lot to see! But I hope to take up an internship at Questacon first.

What has been the highlight of the program?
The group projects have been a lot of fun. I've done one on the influence of science fiction on peoples' views of artificial intelligence, and another on the ethics of testing children. They've been really interesting.

Why would you recommend this program to others?
Oh for lots of reasons! I've really enjoyed it, it's really stimulating and enjoyable.

Benefits of being at the ANU / life in Canberra?
I really like Canberra! I'm from Paris and I love my city but I really like the benefits you get in Canberra of living in a city while having natural surrounds. You know, there are museums and shops and great places to eat and drink, and then you get trees and cockatoos in the streets! It's really a nice place to live.

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