Students’ horizons opened to life as a scientist in JCU experience

High school students considering going to university have been give a rare glimpse of what life as a scientist looks like in Far North Queensland.

Regional students Lillian Nuttall, Nick Armstrong and Tiarne Watsin got a glimpse of what life as a scientist would look like if they choose to pursue university at JCU's Heroes in Science program. Picture: Tim Little

High school students considering going to university have been given a rare glimpse into what life as a scientist is like in Far North Queensland.

Students from as far south as Yeppoon and across northern Queensland gathered for a two-day immersion experience at James Cook University’s Smithfield and Daintree campuses.

The 26 students were given opportunities across Tuesday and Wednesday to measure groundwater, learn about plant science and see the rainforest biodiversity from the Daintree crane observatory.

Students learnt about groundwater and the impact our rivers and streams have on our environment from hydrology expert, Dr Han She Lim. Picture: Tim Little

Year 11 student Lillian Nuttall, who travelled more than 600km from Proserpine for the event, said the experience showed her that she wanted to go to university.

“When I read up about it, it just seemed really interesting all the different things, so I thought I’d try it out,” she said.

“It’s definitely made it easier for me to make the decision to go to uni … it’s actually amazing, it’s like a whole different life here.”

Only 27 per cent of school leavers across the Far North pursued tertiary education in 2024, compared to 39 per cent of Queensland school leavers.

Professor Lucas Cernusak said these experiences were essential in showing students what was out there.

“The opportunity to get a hands-on experience and see the kinds of opportunities there are for research, I think is really exciting,” Prof Cernusak said.

“That kind of experience is really memorable and makes a big impact.

“Employment opportunities are really great for environmental scientists in the Cairns and Tablelands regions and around Townsville as well, so there’s demand and there’s also plenty of capacity here for teaching more students.”

Yeppoon resident Nick Armstrong said the event made participants question life outside of their hometown.

“It’s really forced me to ask what’s out there for me? What’s outside of your town and your comfort zone?” he said.

Originally published as Students’ horizons opened to life as a scientist in JCU experience