Sam, a 2020 University of Newcastle graduate, is now completing a PhD in Biomedical Engineering at Brown University, USA. He recognises the University of Newcastle as a major contributor to his academic success.

From early high school, Sam knew he wanted to make a difference in the lives of people living with spinal cord injuries. As Sam’s passion for making a difference grew, he became determined to be a part of developing the advanced technology needed to improve their lives.

So, Sam set on his journey of making a difference, by studying a Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical) (Honours) at Newcastle.

“The University of Newcastle was the logical choice to learn the foundational skills I would need to succeed at my mission. It has strong processing, control theory, and electronics design programs, all of which are critical in my current studies.

“The university was also extremely receptive and supportive of all my goals, encouraging me to tailor the courses in my program to my interests, passions, and calling.” Sam said.

One of Sam’s most memorable moments of studying at Newcastle was completing a study abroad semester through Global E3 – an international exchange program for engineering graduates.

“The University of Pittsburgh has a strong neuroelectric interfaces program, which I arranged to explore during my time abroad,” Sam said.

“Following my semester abroad, I extended my stay in the USA, after being accepted for an internship at NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center on Edwards Air Force Base in California. For my work at NASA, I was awarded the Student Central Intern of the Year Award in 2018. I was then awarded the 2020 prestigious Susan and Isaac Wakil Foundation John Monash scholarship,” he said.

Sam explains his decision of studying his PhD at Brown University as a ‘fortunate choice’.

“I’ve been working on projects, collaborating with extremely well-known scientists, and making positive changes even beyond what I’d hoped for. None of this would have been possible without the support, knowledge, and confidence I received at the University of Newcastle.”

Receiving the 2020 University Medal for Engineering (Electrical) award was also instrumental in his journey.

“Throughout completing my degree, I had always admired those whose achievements were recognized with the University Medal, and while it was something that I aspired to, I never imagined receiving one myself,” Sam said.

Whilst Sam’s academic achievements have exceeded his expectations, the student support he received from university staff well and truly took the spark.

“This began prior to even attending university. In Year 10, I emailed several staff members in the School of Electrical Engineering, sharing with them my vision for neuroelectric interface-based prosthesis. That same day, I had an overwhelming response, and the staff even scheduled a meeting with me to talk about course options and chat with current PhD students who were applying electrical engineering to physiological targets.

“This support extended all through my time at Newcastle. Wherever I wanted to take my academic and professional journey, Newcastle university was there to support me,” Sam said.

Overall, Sam’s time at the University of Newcastle has opened more doors than he had ever imagined.

“At Newcastle, you’re given the tools to make change in the world in a supportive environment.

“Not only do you leave with a degree from a highly respected university, but you can use your time here to explore the world, make lasting professional connections, and shape yourself into a graduate who is competitive on the world stage,” Sam said.

Study a Bachelor of Electrical and Electronic Engineering (Honours) at the University of Newcastle

Sam Parker `

Sam Parker

Currently completing his PhD at Brown University, USA, Sam thanks the University of Newcastle for getting him there.

At Newcastle, you’re given the tools to make change in the world in a supportive environment.