Student Highlights
From chance conversations to becoming college medallist

Audrey is a Chinese Malaysian student that had always dreamed of studying overseas. For Audrey, she knew she needed to find a University in Malaysia that offered international exchange.

“I was aware that University of Newcastle was famous for its science-related courses,” she said.

For Audrey, the decision to study Food Science and Human Nutrition was a happy accident: speaking with a friend sparked her interest in learning more.

“While talking with a family friend, they randomly said that there is a degree called ‘Food Science’, and from that, I decided to research more about it.

“With the thought that I had a little bit of science background in school, I did not want to waste it,” she said.

Completing a Bachelor of Food Science and Human Nutrition in 2020, Audrey continued her study by completing Honours in 2021.

For her outstanding efforts in the research project completed during her Honours, Audrey received the College Medal. Recalling this experience, she could not believe she had been awarded such an achievement.

“This award is a reminder that hard work pays off and seeing the smiles on my family's faces makes me so happy.

“I was in disbelief and thought that I was surely not the only one who received it among my peers! I am really happy to receive it,” she said.

Audrey’s Honours project investigated the effects of natural antioxidants on fatty acids during the deep-frying process of seafood.

“We found that with the presence of natural antioxidants, deep-fried seafood showed that the polyunsaturated fatty acids were able to retain their stability as compared to deep-fried seafood without natural antioxidants.

“This was eye-opening because people do not always see the benefits in eating deep-fried seafood,” she said.

Since completing her studies, Audrey has found work in the food industry, working for Wing Hong Foods as a Food Technologist Coordinator.

Recalling her experience with the University of Newcastle, Audrey believes her studies have helped her to take on large tasks and multitask successfully.

“The University has prepared me to take on tasks bravely and be able to multitask. This greatly helps in my current role, as it is important to be on top of things,” she said.

Audrey would encourage other students thinking of applying for study to take the leap and find their passion.

“The University of Newcastle is a great place to meet amazing people and find the passion your heart desires or is yet to be found. Do not be afraid to face obstacles!” she said.

Study a Bachelor of Food Science and Human Nutrition

Audrey Theah

From a chance conversation with a friend, Audrey decided to undertake a Bachelor of Food Science and Human Nutrition, and is now the College Medallist for her Honours work in 2021.