Student: Olivia Wilson

Study Program: Bachelor of Marine Science

Why did you choose Macquarie?

Macquarie's course was good, the lecturers were good and it seemed to be a really good research university - research brings in the good lecturers.

I surf as well, so coming here was partly a lifestyle choice… Being midway between the city and the beach is awesome. There are beaches all the way up the coast and they are amazing.

What have been the highlights of your experience?

I can be involved in things here that I just couldn't do in England. Last holidays I was involved in a whale watching study (with research students) – I could never do that at home.

Student: Phillip Butterworth

Study Program: PhD Candidate specialising in hydro-thermal microbiology

Why did you choose this research area?

I have always been interested in the big questions about existence, like 'where has life come from?' I am no closer to answering such questions but it is a fun journey.

What have been the highlights of your experience?

The research journey has taken him to remote wilderness areas in New Zealand. There are so many travel opportunities, it’s exciting to really get out there and live in extreme environments. There is so much diversity in the job too, with field and lab work, and presenting research.