Starting university is both an exciting and uncertain time. While it marks a new chapter of growth and opportunity, it can also be overwhelming for students to adjust to unfamiliar environments and expectations.
To ease the transition, the Faculty of Engineering supports high school students through its Women in Engineering initiative. The program offers scholarships, networking opportunities, and a strong sense of community to help them feel supported from the very beginning.
Among its key programs are the Industry Mentoring Program and the Buddy Program, which connect students with mentors and peers for guidance and encouragement.
As part of these initiatives, engineering students Nell Slattery and Andy Bloomfield have gained valuable insights and confidence to thrive in their university journey.
From uncertainty to empowerment
Nell has long been drawn to the MedTech field, but like many students stepping into a complex and fast-evolving industry, she wasn’t sure where to begin.
“I wanted personalised guidance to better understand how I could navigate it and where my interests might lead me,” she explains. “The mentoring program is a unique opportunity for me to ask questions, explore career pathways, and gain real-world advice that I wouldn’t get from coursework alone.”
Through the Industry Mentoring Program, Nell was matched with a mentor who helped her navigate her options and build confidence along the way. Their monthly conversations quickly became a source of clarity and motivation.
“Her guidance and belief in me have been incredibly empowering,” shares Nell. “She’s encouraged me to reflect inward rather than just focus on the future, and she’s helped me become more confident in myself and my place in the biomedical engineering field.”
The mentoring program is a unique opportunity for me to ask questions, explore career pathways, and gain real-world advice that I wouldn’t get from coursework alone.
Nell Slattery
Bachelor of Engineering Honours (Biomedical Engineering) student
Hearing from my buddy about how she’s put some of my advice into practice and it worked out really well, giving her a great opportunity she wouldn’t otherwise have had.
Andy Bloomfield
Bachelor of Engineering Honours (Biomedical Engineering) student
Growing together through peer support
For Andy, navigating university in her early years felt like a missed opportunity. Without guidance, she often struggled to access the full range of academic experiences available. She joined the Buddy Program to support incoming students the way she wished she’d been supported.
“I saw it as an opportunity to help give someone else the head start I wish I’d had when it came to navigating relationships with academics and industry, taking advantage of university programs and selecting the best subjects for me.”
The Buddy Program isn’t just about one-way support. Both students benefit from the experience, learning from each other and deepening their connection to the university community.
“I loved hearing about everything she’s been up to, and it’s helped me see the uni through fresh eyes - I had no idea the library ran such diverse workshops!” says Andy.
Backed by the community
For both Nell and Andy, their experiences in the Women in Engineering programs have been strengthened by the broader support of the Faculty of Engineering, from committed staff to a culture of connection.
Reflecting on their journeys, both students encourage others to get involved in the Industry Mentoring and Buddy programs early.
“The academic staff have been wonderful - they really care about your learning, design courses to give you important skills, and they’re really happy to offer advice,” says Andy.
“It’s such a valuable opportunity to gain real insight into your future career, especially during a time when you might be feeling unsure or overwhelmed,” shares Nell. “My mentor has helped me feel more confident about the path I’m on and reminded me that there’s space for me in the industry.”