Meet Mia – a third year Bachelor of Biomedical Science student, who is majoring in Anatomy and Human Biology, with a minor in Brain and Behaviour.

Amongst Mia’s busy schedule, she also finds time to work three days a week and volunteer one day a week at the Perth Children's Hospital. 

Mia’s studies are challenging, but rewarding, and she credits the supportive work environment, open student engagement and diverse learning environments at UWA to her enjoyment and success.  

"Whilst all my peers are on their own academic journey, I can confidently say that my UWA experience has without a doubt been filled with endless support.”

Mia has formed bonds with students and professionals from all walks of life and is grateful to have this network that will remain with her after university.

Along Mia’s journey, she had the opportunity to intern at Orana House; a not-for-profit organisation that provides accommodation, holistic support and services to women and children fleeing family and domestic violence. 

Mia interned over the summer holidays, by taking the McCusker Centre for Citizenship Internship unit, which offered six credit points toward her degree and immersed her in an invaluable real-life experience she will never forget.

The unforgettable connections Mia formed at Orana House led to her landing a job there too. 

"I’ve learnt that these opportunities don’t come to you, you have to chase them and make them happen. UWA not only provides you the opportunities to do this, however, gives you the confidence to take the challenge on!”

Mia believes experiences like this, and other opportunities that are offered to Bachelor of Biomedical Science students are preparing them for their future careers. 

From career events, to presentations from professionals in the science industry, to being provided the opportunity to reach out and work with research institutions either via internships or indirectly such as the Perron Institute, and so much more.  

Mia expresses how it is common in the final teaching week of the semester of level three units for students to be taught skills to enhance their employability such as resume writing and interview skills. Students are informed of upcoming graduate programs, to ensure they are on the pathway to success upon graduating. 

Mia has shared some advice for anyone who is considering studying at UWA:

"Get informed, ask questions, make memories, meet new people and always be open to learn from everyone and everything. It all shapes who you are, the skills you acquire and the knowledge that you generate.”

I chose to study Physiology, and Pathology and Laboratory Medicine as I love learning about the physiological mechanisms and systems of how the body works, and linking that to where things go wrong in diseases.

Through honours I’ve been able to undertake amazing research and laboratory work with the National Centre of Asbestos Related Diseases. I worked on experiments where the results can impact the treatment outcomes for cancer patients which is very rewarding. I want to continue my career in cancer research.