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Student Profile - Adam Schwebel
Bachelor of Science (Forestry), 2009
Our classes have small learning groups, so we’re able to build a close community with lecturers and course mates, and that enhances my learning experience. We have field trips twice a week, which are lots of fun and also practical!

Why did you choose to study science [or medicine, or health] at the ANU over any other institution?
As I’m from rural NSW I didn’t think that it would be practical to study forestry at a Sydney university as it’s located in an urban area. I thought that ANU had a good forestry program, and it’s also strategically located where we have a good surrounding nature.

What was the best feature of studying science at the ANU?
Our classes have small learning groups, so we’re able to build a close community with lecturers and course mates, and that enhances my learning experience. We have field trips twice a week, which are lots of fun and also practical!

How do you feel the ANU is preparing you for your future?
Generally the field trips provide a different experience to classroom learning, as those trips would include looking at eucalypts, soil, the ecosystem and such, which in my opinion is crucial for a degree in forestry.

What is your favourite class, and why?
ENVS 1001- Resources, Environment and Society: We got to look at environmental sustainability, and to explore humans’ view towards the environment in general. It was interesting to learn about the humans’ viewpoint, where they stand in the environment and so on.
BIOL 1009- Diversity of Life; Classes were good, looked at different animals and plants, it gave us good basic knowledge

What has been the highlight of your ANU experience to date?
I could say that I had a pretty well rounded experience to date – I enjoy my classes, we have field trips, I also managed to obtain summer work experience (assisted by the ANU), and I also play college sports. I managed to meet a lot of people and establish a community with them, especially in IB where we learn the importance of teamwork.

What do you enjoy about living in Canberra?
It’s not too hectic; coming from a bushland environment I enjoy the atmosphere. It’s not confining, though you’re likely to bump into someone every time you go out!

What is it that you particularly like about science as a discipline?
Growing up in the bushland had a big influence on my decision to do forestry; I also enjoyed science in high school. I think that forestry would provide me the freedom and independence that I wouldn’t be able to get if I worked in an office. I also love being in nature, so I thought that if I could make a career out of it, it would

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