Catherine Hayes from Wodonga is studying a combined double Honours degree in Science and Law. "I chose ANU because of the excellent resources and also because when I visited on open day I thought the campus was beautiful and would provide a great environment in which to study and live. At high school I really enjoyed science so wanted to study it more at uni, but I also had a strong interest in law. So the chance to do a combined Science/Law degree was perfect for me."

"Law and science might seem like very different subjects but I’ve actually found they have a lot in common. Both require you to express ideas clearly and succinctly and to follow arguments in a logical manner. Having a good science background and an understanding of legal processes should put me in a really good position to pursue a career in environmental law, which is what I ultimately want to do. For example my Law Honours project focussed on the regulation of military sonar under Australian legislation, which was a great chance draw on my background in marine biology."

"My advice to those thinking about a career in science is to go for it. Science (both at university and in working life) is exciting, interesting, rewarding and vital; not only for those doing the work and research but for all those who will someday benefit from it. And if you have an interest in another discipline as well then definitely give some thought to a double degree. I’ve been really happy with the way my degree has worked out and wouldn’t even consider having done things any differently."