Fresh science

Issue 20 | Spring/Summer 2007

Report: Samantha Blair
Photography: Greg Ford

Stephanie Kondos and her former science teacher, Peter Thompson

Monash University is helping to reverse a steady decline in young people taking up a degree in the sciences.

An innovative program is using the next generation of students as high school ambassadors to rekindle some interest.

When Stephanie Kondos graduated from secondary college her career plan was to combine her love of science with helping people. Four years on, the 22-year-old is realising her dream.

Ms Kondos is completing her honours year in Biochemistry through the Faculty of Science and plans to continue research work, perhaps one day pursuing a PhD.

"I enjoy learning new things. My earliest experiment in primary school was finding out why a tissue in the bottom of a glass stays dry when the glass is upturned in water. My work now is much more technical, but the basic principle of discovery is still there," she said.

Ms Kondos is one of 20 science students selected for the highly-regarded Science Student Ambassadors program. While it is an opportunity to develop her professional and personal skills, it also is about sharing her love for the sciences with senior high school students.

It's important for students to know that science graduates can do whatever they want in terms of career choice, says Stephanie Kondos.

"I remember visiting Monash when I was at high school and now I get to reinvest some of my knowledge. I speak to students who are just like I was - unsure of their future - and hopefully can guide them with some insight into a science degree and what it's like to be at university," Ms Kondos said.

Dean of the Faculty of Science, Professor Rob Norris, suspects many students do not realise the career potential that comes with a science degree.

"Science graduates have diversity in career settings including chemistry, botany, geology, environmental services, geosciences and a range of medical processes including IVF and radiology," Professor Norris said.

Starting salaries vary - as for any career but the potential for earning is excellent, Professor Norris said.

"It is not uncommon for scientists to earn well over the $100,000 mark, particularly in high-demand areas, such as mining and environmental chemistry."

Recently, Ms Kondos returned to her old school, McKinnon Secondary College, as part of the program.

"I hadn't been back for years, but it was great to meet with the students and to teach and encourage them in the sciences," she said.

"It's important for students to know that science graduates can do whatever they want in terms of career choice and a career in science is more than working in a lab for the rest of their lives."

Her return to school was a chance to meet again with her former science teacher and mentor, Peter Thompson.

"It's disappointing that so many students see medicine, arts or law as better options for a career," Mr Thompson said.

"From my experience, students who graduate with a science degree do exceptionally well, earn good money and are at the cutting edge of developing new vaccines, drugs and creating the latest technologies."

For Ms Kondos, a science degree has been the perfect start to a promising career. "My journey so far has been exciting, daunting and an absolute challenge," she said.

"I am pleased I am now well on my way to a future full of possibilities and hope that in some small way, I am encouraging younger students to also follow their dreams."

for further information about science at Monash, visit the Science faculty website.