Meet Isabella, a postgraduate Environmental Science student engaging in hands-on experience, global perspectives and practical skills, and discovering where her passion can have the greatest impact.
I have always had a passion for the environment and loved spending time in nature, so studying environmental science felt like a natural way to deepen my understanding and contribute to something meaningful. Returning to postgraduate study has also been a way for me to reconnect with my interests and strengthen my drive to work in this field.
During my undergraduate degree at the University of Sydney, I explored and researched a few different science majors before discovering Environmental Studies, which immediately felt like the right fit. I completed my final years during COVID, which reduced opportunities for fieldwork and hands-on learning, and I finished my degree wanting more practical experience.
That’s why I returned to USYD through the Graduate Certificate in Environmental Science, to ease back into study and see how I would enjoy the Masters coursework. I’ve really enjoyed the units I’ve taken so far, including applied ecology, environmental chemistry, climate change, and the field school in Indonesia. These experiences have confirmed that progressing into the Master of Environmental Science is the right next step for me.
I currently study part-time, which gives me the flexibility to balance work, study, and personal life more sustainably. The part-time structure allows me to stay engaged in my coursework while managing my professional responsibilities, maintaining a healthy routine, and still having time to spend with friends and family.
The postgraduate community at USYD has been incredibly welcoming! It’s been exciting meeting students from such diverse backgrounds and experiences, and there’s always a sense of openness and curiosity on campus. There’s never a dull moment — students are eager to learn from one another, try new experiences, and build genuine connections.
So far, I’ve had many memorable experiences, but the highlight of my degree has been the Sustainable Development Field School in Central Java, Indonesia. Studying Coastal Flooding and Environmental Change and Agrarian Change and Rural Livelihoods gave me the rare chance to see environmental science come to life in a hands-on, community-based setting.
The field school is run through a partnership between the University of Sydney and the Christian University of Satya Wacana, Salatiga. I am grateful for this experience, which would not have been possible without the incredible team of professors — Jeffery Neilson, Linda Susilowati, Titi Prabawa, Yesaya Sandang, Aldi Lasso, and Rio Setiawan — as well as the local NGOs including WALHI and community members we had the chance to learn from and coordinate with.
Beyond the academic learning, the field school was an unforgettable time of friendship, fun, and collaboration. Travelling around Central Java, connecting with locals, and working closely with my classmates allowed us to form connections and create lifelong memories.
From guided community visits in Semarang, to harvesting cassava with our village homestay dad, Bapak, and cooking traditional meals with our homestay mum, Ibu, to hopping in the back of a Ute to watch the sunrise with friends while hiking Mount Andong in Keditan Village, every moment was an unforgettable adventure. Full of joy, teamwork, and discovery, these experiences provided hands-on insights into environmental challenges and created lasting memories.
The Indonesia Field School was truly a highlight of my degree. It gave me practical skills, deep insights, and friendships I’ll carry for a lifetime, along with experiences that will shape my future career.
My goal is to work in a space that connects science, community, and justice — through environmental NGOs, government policy, or international development. I’m especially passionate about linking ecological sustainability with supporting people.
The degree has given me technical skills like data analysis, lab work, and environmental assessments, as well as soft skills in collaboration and cross-cultural communication. It has also expanded my professional network and opened new career pathways. These experiences have strengthened my knowledge, confidence, and passion for making a meaningful contribution to environmental science.
My advice is to follow your curiosity and passion. Keep exploring the opportunities, connections, and knowledge that come your way, and don’t be afraid to try new experiences. When I first started my undergraduate studies, I focused on what I thought I should do, but it wasn’t until I followed what I truly cared about that I discovered Environmental Science. Pursuing what excites you can completely shape your path and open doors you never expected.
