Maddie aspires to build engineering dreams
Inspired by her father’s career and choosing to follow in his footsteps, Maddie Huynh is graduating with a Bachelor of Civil Engineering (Honours).
Originally focused on a career in medicine, Maddie changed course after picking up a Civil Engineering program handbook at a university career day. Combining her passion for science and mathematics, and following the footsteps of her father, Maddie knew she wanted to become a civil engineer.
During her first year, Maddie received support from the University’s Peer Assisted Study Sessions (PASS), where she was able to connect with fellow students, attend study sessions, and receive guidance from her peers.
The support she received through the PASS program inspired Maddie to give back and become a PASS leader and an academic tutor for a geomechanics course.
“I was responsible for three different courses and I loved the role. I host these sessions to help first year students, both with their academics and navigating university life.”
Driven by her passion for inspiring and helping others, Maddie took on an executive member role with the Women in Engineering club (NUWiE), where she was able to create opportunities to help engineering students transition into the workforce.
“I could actively promote inclusivity and support for women in engineering. It has been a dream of mine to give back to the community the support I had received.
“Soon I won’t be able to participate as an executive member of NUWiE anymore, but I will definitely try to get my company to continue sponsoring events for those interested in engineering.”
Connecting with friends and lecturers was a highlight of Maddie’s time at University and she was especially grateful to her supervisors for the opportunity to attend multiple industry conferences. These experiences helped her gain valuable insights from professionals and peers in the engineering field.
“It was really cool to see what kind of opportunities a student, like me, can have. I was very inspired by attending these conferences that I have reached out to my supervisor to see if there are any projects at the University that I could be involved in.”
Another of her favourite experiences was making use of the facilities, such as Auchmuty Library, and support offered on campus.
“I really enjoyed studying in the information room in the library. The facilities and services were so good, and the staff were always supportive and welcoming.
“The University of Newcastle provides a lot of support for students. I would tell future students that it is going to be the best three or four years of their life.”
Maddie began working in the industry during her studies, starting as an undergraduate engineer at ADW Johnson, and then later accepting an undergraduate role at Hatch. After graduating, Maddie is continuing at Hatch as a graduate structural engineer and aspires to remain connected to the University.
“I want to pursue a professional career that may include research, while continuing to inspire and support young girls pursue their goals in engineering. If I do end up doing postgraduate study in the future, I will definitely come back to the University of Newcastle.”
To watch the 2024 Callaghan Graduation livestream recordings please click here.
For future Graduation ceremonies and dates please click here.
Read more about graduation and the success of our students:
Education that empowers: University of Newcastle celebrates record graduation
Dust yourself off and try again: you can do it and become a doctor
Off-field career pivot for psychology graduate Alex McKinnon
Tori digs up past to plan for her future
Aradhana finds strength in supporting others
STUDY A BACHELOR OF CIVIL ENGINEERING
Contact
- Kali Somerville, Communications Officer
- Phone: 02 4055 0295
- Email: kali.somerville@newcastle.edu.au
Related news
Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.