More Stories
Our 160,000+ alumni are found right across the globe and in all walks of life. Thank you for sharing your fondest memories of the University of Adelaide.
Dr Ryan Bignell
B Sc (High Perf Comp Phys) (Hons) 2015, Ph D (Physics & Astro) 2020.
Ryan is currently in Ireland, where he is performing exciting research in theoretical particle physics at Trinity College, Dublin.
"The University of Adelaide was key to shaping my career. The atmosphere of camaraderie among the higher degree by research (HDR) students during my time there is unmatched since and a key reason I followed the path to further research that I am now on."
Chelsea Zhang
M Viticulture & Oenology 2017.
Chelsea provides her fun digital game, which lets others experience the art and joy of winemaking.
"In 2015, I started my Master's in Viticulture and Oenology at the University of Adelaide. Over those two years, I learned a lot about grapes and wine production. After graduating in 2017, I wanted to put what I'd learned to use in a new and fun way. The idea of creating a winemaking game was born from the desire to share the magic of viticulture and oenology with a broader audience, bridging the gap between the vineyard and the virtual world.
That's how "From Soil to Bottle" came to life. This game lets players dive into the world of winemaking, letting them make their own wines, manage a vineyard, and deal with all the ups and downs of running a winery."
Taniya Sharma
M Pub Hlth 2021.
Taniya is a marketing manager of a college, developing and implementing strategic marketing initiatives to enhance the college's brand, attract prospective students, engage current students and alumni, and drive enrolment.
"[The University of Adelaide] taught me the value of understanding different perspectives and working effectively in diverse environments, which has been invaluable in my professional journey.
Moreover, the friendships I formed during the study abroad program have lasted to this day, and I still cherish the memories and lessons learned from that time. It was truly a life-changing experience that continues to shape my personal and professional growth.
The knowledge and skills I gained from my public health background, combined with my interest in marketing, eventually led me to pursue a career in higher education marketing. I leveraged my understanding of health communication, community engagement, and strategic planning to develop innovative marketing campaigns that resonated with students, faculty, and the community.
Reflecting on my university experience, I am grateful for the intersection of public health and marketing that has shaped my career as a marketing manager for a college. It is a testament to how diverse interests and experiences can come together to create a fulfilling and purpose-driven professional journey."
Amber Barrow
B Soc Sc 2021.
Amber is a Plan Manager, working to upload service agreements and invoicing. She says the role uses the skills she learnt in her degree as well as the data management and people skills that I strengthened at university.
"My University Degree (Bachelor of Social Science) showed me my life’s purpose. Before university I wasn’t sure where I was going to go with my career, but whilst studying it became clear I feel rewarded by helping people. My degree gave me the skills to have a deeper understanding of people's differences. This now allows me to work without judgement in an inclusive way."
Cindy Porter
M A (Curatorial & Museum St) 2011, M A (St Art Hist) 2016.
Cindy now works as a Local History Officer for the City of Port Adelaide Enfield, where she regularly practices the skills learnt in preparing exhibitions, delivering programs, managing projects and managing a significant historical collection.
"The most memorable part of my studies at The University of Adelaide was the learning modules undertaken at the Art Gallery of South Australia as part of a double degree in art history and museum studies. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience of developing skills in conjunction with industry professionals and the dedication of Professor Cathy Speck in imparting her knowledge and love of art."
Kelsey Carman
B Sc (Biochem Micro & Immun) 2013.
Kelsey now works at the University of Adelaide as an officer in the area of Disability Support, assisting students to do their best as they manage their medical condition.
"The best memory that I have is meeting one of my best friends at a lecture theatre, discussing about coffee and having wedges at the Unibar. She then moved to UniSA, but our friendship has continued with me being her maid of honour at her wedding and she being one of my bridesmaids!"
Alena Zimmermann
B Health & Med Sc 2023.
Alena is currently studying her Masters in Forensic Science and has recently begun another bachelor degree in primary education, with a hope to share an understanding of neurodevelopment into a primary education setting. She is the mother to a 5 year old son and has enjoyed "learning how to learn" alongside him.
"I had the most amazing tutor for my neuroanatomy class in second year. He was incredibly supportive and understanding during the time where I had a lot of big problems in other areas of my personal life. He went above and beyond his job description to ensure that I not only excelled in the subject but made sure that I had a thorough understanding of the topics being taught so I had the foundations I needed to move forward and undertake other neuroscience related courses.
My tutor also made being a single mother, studying fulltime so much easier to navigate with his studying tips and tricks! Years later, we are close friends and he has remained a level of support that I have never received from anyone else! Goes to show that the teachers you meet during your university degree can set you up for a fulfilling career as well as remaining life-long friends (or colleagues!) and continue to be of great support throughout life!"
Daniella Colicchio
B Ec 2009, M Int Trade & Dev 2010.
Daniella now works for the Commonwealth Government in international research and engagement, representing the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations in the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation negotiations.
"I had a fellow join the teaching staff for my Masters in International Trade and Development program who was from the WTO [World Trade Organization]. He said in passing one day, "If you’re ever in Geneva come and say hello!" Two years later I found myself in Geneva with the ILO [International Labour Organization]."
Dale Manson JP
R D A 1976, R D A T 1977, Grad Dip Ed 1990, M App Sc (ag) 1998.
Dale is now officially retired after a 34 year professional career in agriculture. However, he continues serving on the Roseworthy Old Collegians Association, where he severed as a committee member continuously for the past 42 years. He has spent three separate terms as President, a title he currently holds. He also served a term on the University’s Alumni Council.
"My story begins post-graduation when I was privileged to be married in the Soldiers' Memorial Chapel at Roseworthy Campus and hold the reception in the historic Roseworthy Main Building Dining Room. That was 30 years ago and realised a longtime dream to be married in the Roseworthy Chapel at the institution that gave me a head start to a wonderful career in agriculture."
Graham Wilkinson and Gwen Wilkinson
Graham: B Sc (Hons) 1953, M Sc 1958, D Sc 1980.
Gwen: B Sc 1948.
As told by their granddaughter, Sophie Wilkinson, Alumni Council Committee member and alum.
B Des St 2008, B Com (Mgmt) 2009, Grad Cert Proj Mgmt & Org 2009.
"My grandfather, Graham Wilkinson, received his M.Sc and D.Sc from the University of Adelaide. Following an "outstanding" global career he was awarded the Pitman Medal, which is a gold medal awarded by the Statistical Society of Australia, and has been awarded only 25 times since its creation in 1978. The medal is awarded in recognition of outstanding achievement in, and contribution to, the discipline of Statistics.
His bio from that award notes: "His work has genuinely and fundamentally changed the way we do statistics". His paper "Statistical estimations in enzyme kinetics" has been nominated as a Citation Classic. Amongst peers, his work and approach was regarded as "profound and lasting".
I believe he is one of two University of Adelaide graduates to be awarded a Pitman Medal for their contribution to their field.
My grandmother, Gwen, received her Bachelor of Science in 1948, and her M.Sc in 1951, both at The University of Adelaide. She was amongst the earlier woman in science."
Kerry-Anne March
B Ag Sc (Hort Sc).
Kerry-Anne is a Senior Viticulturalist at Growers Supplies McLaren Vale.
"Started Ag Science in 1994 and on my first excursion to Port Gawler mangroves I met a fellow student for the first time. He threw an apple core so I 'told him off'. Apparently he was smitten afterwards but it may have been my short shorts.
We were truly best of friends spending many lunch breaks on the Barr Smith Lawns before realising there was more to it. Thirty years later we are happily married with a growing family, working together professionally in Viticulture. There may be many other 'interesting' stories of our days as students, and we wouldn't change a thing. Definitely Adelaide Uni has had an amazing impact on our lives, and we are so grateful for how it shaped our future for the long road ahead."
Dato’ Ir (Dr) Lee Yee Cheong AO
B E (Elec) (Hons).
Dato’ Ir Lee Yee Cheong has held many high-level leadership, academic and advisory roles throughout his long and illustrious career. He is an Honorary Advisor with the Malaysian Australian Alumni Council.
"1956 was most memorable for me. First, it was my very first time away from home. Secondly, it was also the first time I lived in a foreign country that was predominantly Anglo-Saxon and quite advanced and developed. Thirdly, it was my first year in University…
Unlike Sydney or Melbourne, Adelaide was in the backwater and did not have a large Asian student population, maybe about three hundred mostly from South-East Asia. We were rather close to one another, especially the Colombo Plan students.
In the summer of 1956, the Murray River was in flood. Adelaide University Student Union organised flood relief teams of volunteers. I can still see in my mind’s eye the Murray in ravaging mood, with flood water reaching the top of the telegraph poles and sandbanks poised precariously against the water.
There was a great camaraderie amongst the student volunteers. Most of them were surprised to see two Malayans amongst them but deeply appreciative of our attempt to help. Our motivation was very simple. We were privileged to have a university education by the generosity of the Australian people under the Colombo Plan. I cannot help but repay even to this day"
Dr Dom Srinon
Ph D (H&SS) Linguistics 2011.
Dom has a strong determination to contribute to society and develop knowledge, and his interests continue to span multiple fields. He has been a vital part of road safety and smoke-free school projects in Thailand, making a lasting impact for communities and children.
"Last year, I was nominated to receive the Alumni Social Empowerment Award from Alumni Australian Association, Thailand. It is noted that the award I received was from having educated over 10,000 students in English, linguistics, and applied linguistics and I have been recognized as a guiding light in systemic functional linguistics, genre-based theory, and English reading and writing skills."
Tia De Santis
B Media 2023.
Tia has been working as Digital Engagement Coordinator for the Adelaide 36ers, Adelaide's NBL team, for almost a year. Her day-to-day role is fast-paced and includes creating content with professional basketballers, travelling with the team to away games, creating and distributing marketing content, filming at trainings and home games on court, and much more.
"My dream was always to work in sport and I am passionate about media creation, so completing this degree allowed me to gain expertise in a number of different media disciplines (photography, videography, editing, writing for media, marketing practices, etc), which allowed me to land this role while still studying due to my numerous media capabilities."
Siddhartha Dange
Current student - Master of Marketing.
Siddhartha hopes to pursue a love for marketing and work towards strengthening organisations' bottom lines, travelling the world as much as possible while he does it.
"I was 12 when I presented a project about Australia in my school. 12 years later I find myself in the same country fulfilling the promise I made to my younger self.
Arriving at the University of Adelaide has been a breath of fresh air. The kindness that surrounds these buildings is unmatched and the fact that everyone is ready to help with almost everything is humbling. Just like my fellow international students I arrived here full of worry and doubt, but a 10 minute conversation with my peers calmed me down. The University has presented me with far more than I could ever imagine. It has been instrumental in giving me things which I needed.
Furthermore I also learnt that when things do get rough, a drink with friends at the Uni Bar always helps!"
Dr Christina Stothard and Mark Stothard
Christina: B A 1990, B A (Hons) 1991, Ph D (Psych) 2021.
Mark: B A 1988, B A (Hons) 1989, LL B 1995.
Christina joined Defence Science and Technology Group in 2022 as part of Defence's Navigate Program and is an adjunct Senior Lecturer at Flinders University, College of Psychology. Mark has recently retired after a 30 year career in tax law.
"Christina: The Barr Smith Reading Room was my favourite place to study – it was quiet, and just beautiful space.
It also helped that I spotted a cute guy who also just happened to be regularly studying in the Reading Room too, which was an extra bonus for me. Little did I know at the time, he’d been biding his time, waiting for mutual friends to introduce us.
The University has been such a formative part of both our lives. Our first ‘proper’ date was at the Adelaide University Law Ball. Many, many stories – lots of debates, many classes, evenings at the University Bar, drinks after lectures. Parties and more parties plus Law School Balls and many morning teas in the Galleria with friends. We had our wedding photos at the University for a personal celebration of meeting at Uni.
Recently, in 2022, I was awarded my PhD in psychology and was honoured to be invited to be the Mace Barer for my graduation ceremony, as well as the University Medal for research excellence. Mark was there, of course, and I could not have finished it without his love and support. Celebrating my PhD with my husband, who I meet so many years ago, at the same place - was wonderful."
Cristian Linardis
B Nursing 2023.
After completing his study in 2023, Cristian was employed as an Assistant in Nursing (AIN) before commencing his Transfer to Professional Practice Program (TPPP) at the Royal Adelaide Hospital in May 2024.
"Growing up, I always had an interest in science and wanted to have a career in healthcare as I knew I wanted to help others. Fast forward years later – my journey with the University of Adelaide started from when I enrolled in the Bachelor of Nursing course towards the end of 2020 after completing my secondary studies. Fast forward a few months later – and I received an offer in this prestigious course – I was over the moon.
My desire to study and pursue a career in nursing has always been in my mind, as I knew I wanted a fulfilling career in healthcare and being able to help and make a positive difference to people's lives. Following my father's passing and seeing the amazing impact the nurses had on my father's life, and my family's, provided me with a boost in motivation and made me reflect on why I want to be a nurse in the first place."
Beiha-Malen Yanez
B Sc (Hons) 2006.
Beiha-Malen now works in consulting as Principal Environmental Scientist. She is also a visual artist and SES volunteer.
"I did my Honours project at the University of Adelaide in 2006. It involved radiotracking brushtail possums in the Adelaide Parklands. I had the amazing opportunity to help a PhD student with her work and got to see the elusive, near-threatened yellow-bellied gliders in the south-west Victorian forests, I will always remember standing in the dark staring at the trees and stars and hearing their call. I also loved the chance to work with volunteers from many walks of life from around the community that helped me with radiotracking the possums around the city."
Yu-Han (Alice) Liao
M E (Chem) 2021.
Yu-Han is a passionate and socio-technical Graduate Process Engineer at Redrawn, a start-up and social enterprise that brings under-represented talents into engineering sectors and has a mission of decarbonising heavy industry through the energy transition.
"The joy when brewing the first batch of Pale Ale at the laboratory at the Engineering North Building was unforgettable! It was the time that I became aware that engineering can be so intriguing, fun, and close to my day-to-day life (that's the start of my home brewing journey)!
I learned a lot of cool people and projects throughout my Master's studies and as a staff at University of Adelaide. Thanks to all the supportive staff and peers for making it such a fantastic place to learn, laugh, and try new and fresh ideas."
Preeti Nalavadi
Current Student: Ph D (Law).
"My journey with University of Adelaide Law School started in 2017 and later transformed into a PhD journey. Throughout this time I have had opportunities of meeting and working alongside stellar academics, visiting scholars and wonderful colleagues.
I feel incredibly lucky to be a part of Adelaide Law School. I am proud to say that the University is one of the best in Australia and it would surely continue to mentor future generations in the coming years."
Wathnak Vy
B Int Dev 2020, B Soc Sc 2020.
Wathnak is a senior counsellor and community engagement coordinator at an NGO in South Australia, spearheading community projects for minority groups, including CALD communities. He is also a registered migration agent.
"With degrees in both International Development and Social Sciences, my decision-making process has been shaped by a holistic perspective. Picture a globe-trotting advocate, confronting issues of poverty, inequality, and environmental challenges. I've strategically wielded economic insights, policy acumen, and governance expertise to contribute to a world that is not only fairer but also more environmentally sustainable.
Envision myself in the realm of non-governmental organisations, government agencies, or socially impactful businesses (think Patagonia's ethos, not just profit motives). It's not just about being a do-gooder; it's about unravelling the complexities of human behaviour.
I've delved into anthropology, sociology, psychology, and politics—a comprehensive exploration of "why we do what we do." Think less Robin Hood, more Sherlock Holmes, deciphering the enigmas of society. As for career paths, the possibilities resemble a choose-your-own-adventure book: government roles, education, research, social work, and even business or marketing (focusing on understanding people to sell ideas, not just products)."
Bec Hanna
B Health & Med Sc 2020, B Health & Med Sc (Hons) 2022. Current Student: Master of Public Health.
Bec has big dreams to complete a PhD, become a Research Fellow, teach the world about cognitive reserve, write books, deliver a TED talk, and perhaps one day become CEO of SA Health. She hopes to raise her two boys to love travel and medicine as much as she does.
"When I held a human brain in my hands for the first time, I knew that nothing would ever stop me from being a neuroscientist. I stood on the same ground as Helen Mayo did before me, with this opportunity to overcome all obstacles and doubts.
I was the first in my family to study at the University of Adelaide, only the second in my family to study at any university. I started my degree at 25, and worked full time the whole way through. I achieved First Class Honours while having and raising a baby. But I did all these things because I had teachers who believed I was capable.
Special people I’ve met along the way have seen something in me I didn’t even know I had. And thanks to them - I’ve achieved more than I ever knew I could."
Dr Sharmina Ahmed
Ph D (Ec).
Sharmina now works as Senior Economics and Policy Officer in Primary Industries and Regions for the SA state government. She has enjoyed watching her son walk the same paths she once did at the University campus, and has great pride in him as he nears his graduation.
"In 2008 I, with my husband and son, came to Adelaide for pursuing my PhD in Economics under Australian Government Endeavour Scholarship program. From the very first day at University, I also started working as part-time Teaching Assistant.
There were many days during my PhD when I felt frustrated and angry and sad at the same time. I used to just walk to Botanic Park, and sat there to release all of my stress. After finishing my PhD, I was fortunate enough to win a 2.5 years Research Fellow position at the University which extended another 2.5 years.
None of these could be achieved without constant help and encouragement from my supervisors. I definitely learned a lot from all my teachers, but I also learned a lot from my students, whom I taught different subjects during the 10 long years I was at the University."
Dr Sophie Ward
B Sc 2017, B Sc (Hons) 2017, Ph D (Vet Sc) 2022.
As part of the Australasian Pig Research Institute Ltd (APRIL) team, Dr Ward is part of an industry-wide CRC-P project looking at why pigs may bite each other’s tails and how we can mitigate risk of an outbreak.
"Having no interest in farm animals, I joined pig club at Roseworthy college because my friend said we should make some friends. I had no idea how incredibly smart and funny these animals were. My pig, called Laquisha, had so much personality and learnt how to sit, stay and follow my hand. When I saw the way pigs are reared in commercial conditions something changed for me. I knew that my place in this world was to improve the lives of pigs on farm in whatever way I can.
In my third year of Animal Science I paid to attend a conference so I could learn more. I was fortunate to meet an amazing speaker, Dr Kate Plush, who was also passionate about pig welfare and had an upcoming honours project at the University of Adelaide. I went on to complete an honours and PhD in the welfare of sows during birth of piglets, working with both the University of Adelaide and as a guest student with the Pharmaceutical Innovation and Development Group at UniSA on a non-injectable inducing agent to trigger birth during the working day so sow and piglets could be cared for appropriately."
Pat Rayment
BA 1996, BA (Hons) 1997, M Psych (Clin & Hlth).
"My first psychology lecture in 1993 was with Frank Dalziel, with eyebrows like Einstein’s, a strong Scottish accent, a stutter and a giggle they made him juggle all over. I was enthralled and on the edge of my seat from his first sentence. His passion and knowledge were inspiring. The first in my family of immigrants to go to university, I completed 6 years of psychology at the University of Adelaide and have been a psychologist since. I am still fascinated with what Dr Dalziel taught me about human evolution and behaviour."
Dr Roderick Jeffrey Hill
Bachelor of Science (Hons) 1971, PhD DSc 1976.
Roderick spent his career at CSIRO, followed by 5 years as Pro-Vice-Chancellor at Monash University. Now retired, he volunteers with The University’s Alumni Council and Hughes Society Committee. He’s Chair of SA&NT Division of the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE) and active in the Waterhouse Club (SA Museum) and the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy. He is writing not one but two books, and in his spare time he chases total solar eclipses.
"I fell into a life-long love of geology and mineralogy at my very first lecture in the Mawson Theatre in 1967. I and a few other latecomers had to find a seat on the steps of one of the aisles of the theatre since it was a boom time for geology and there were 400 first year students enrolled, more than the theatre could be accommodated comfortably. One of thousands of moments that I will never forget was watching Buzz Aldrin and Neil Armstrong set foot on the Moon on a small black and white TV set up in the Union House in July 1969.
My time at Adelaide opened my horizons immeasurably to what life had to offer. It was an exciting, exhilarating and very satisfying period, especially when I moved into research as a graduate student. I will always be grateful to the university for giving me this opportunity to blossom."
Merridy Jamieson-Rokobaro
B Ed St 1997.
Merridy teaches intensive English in the SA public school system.
"It had always been my goal to study at the University of Adelaide, but I had to wait until I was a parent and full-time worker, and in my 40s! I would rush in after a day teaching in the classroom to hand in my papers, enviously observing the young people sitting around on the lawns! However, I am grateful for my admission and eventual graduation from the School of Education. My thanks especially go to Dr Margaret Secombe who I was delighted to see at the 2023 Kevin Marjoribanks Memorial lecture."
Dr Tejaswini Arunachala Murthy
PhD (Med) 2022.
Dr Murthy now lives in India so her daughter can grow up with her extended family. She continues to pursue nutrition research and customise meal plans in ICU.
"I’ve been passionate about finding cost-effective strategies to cure illness ever since I joined med school in 2002. This motto strengthened in 2018 when I myself was admitted to ICU, and I subsequently embarked on a PhD.
My PhD journey was riddled with challenges including 28 failed IVF embryo transfers, 2 near life-threatening surgeries and ICU stays. My final embryo transfer just before I submitted my thesis and the birth of my miracle daughter made every struggle worth it.
The exceptional supervisory panel and post graduate coordinator, UofA support in the form of travel grants, and recognition of my work with AMS publication award and conference presentations, all made the journey unforgettable and joyous. The camaraderie I shared with my fellow PhD students as we enjoyed coffee on Barr Smith lawns or while analysing data on weekends at AHMS, was incredible."
Charlotte Pruett
Current staff member - Marketing Officer, Research and Innovation.
Charlotte now works in the Research and Innovation team at the University of Adelaide, in this beautiful city that her sister fell in love with and encouraged her to visit all those years ago. Charlotte’s sister Katie works as a veterinarian in the United States.
"I am from the United States, where it's common to study abroad in an international country for a semester. My older sister, Katie, studied topics related to veterinary work at the University of Adelaide for a semester in 2014. She fell in love with the Roseworthy and city campuses as well as the city of Adelaide itself.
When I graduated from University in the States in 2019, I decided to go backpacking in Australia, and my sister urged me to visit Adelaide. She said that, while it's not as well known to Americans as Sydney of Melbourne, it's her favourite city she visited.
I came here for what I thought was a stop on my backpacking trip... and I have now lived here for four years, recently receiving my Permanent Residency."
Eddy Sitepu
M Comm (Acc) 2009.
Eddy now works as a policy analyst at the Fiscal Policy Agency, Ministry of Finance, Indonesia, where he is responsible for assessing fiscal policies related to state revenue, especially export duties.
"Leaving for Adelaide to continue my studies was my first experience traveling abroad. What makes it even more special is that I studied for my master's degree at the University of Adelaide, one of the best universities in Australia. It is a very proud experience to be part of this University. Filled with many historical buildings along North Terrace, I felt like I was traveling through time to gain as much knowledge as possible in the time I had on this campus.
One place I enjoy the most is the Barr Smith Library, where I spend a lot of time reading various books from various disciplines and also where I study to prepare for exams. What a short life experience (only 1.5 years) but it will continue to colour my life. Hopefully, later in my lifetime, I will still have the opportunity to come and visit Adelaide and of course the University of Adelaide."
Evana Ferdous Haque
Master of International Management 2020.
Evana works for Allianz Australia as a Claim Consultant, working at the intersection of risk, regulation, and client needs.
"A journey of growth and discovery, which I always cherish. My two years in The University of Adelaide have been a captivating saga of challenges, triumphs, and a metamorphosis that has shaped me into the person I am today in my journey from Bangladesh to Australia.
The first chapter of this incredible journey unfolded on the orientation day—a tapestry of nervous excitement. The campus buzzed with energy as students from diverse backgrounds converged to embark on a shared adventure in post-graduation.
The transition from university to the professional realm marked a pivotal moment in my journey of continuous learning. I navigate the professional landscape with a sense of purpose, resilience, and a continuous thirst for knowledge. Thanks to The University of Adelaide for this incredible journey!"
Loke Yuen Wong
Bachelor of Commerce (Management) 2002.
Today, Loke is a senior lecturer in Malaysia and teaches a variety of courses including business, accounting, statistics, marketing, and management.
"It was a great learning experience to study at the University of Adelaide in Australia. My favourite memories are from the times spent with my classmates and friends I met during my time at university.
In 2002 I was chosen to take part in the orientation activities, assisting with orientation for new international students at the University. The skills I learned during my time at Adelaide have prepared me for my career today.
After graduating with Adelaide Bachelor of Commerce degree, I worked in the human resource department as an HR personnel and further developed my career in education sector. The University of Adelaide has made a major positive impact on my life."
Susan Dwyer
BA 1985 (Philosophy and Psychology) and a BA Hon 1986 (Philosophy).
Awarded the Jeffries Memorial Medal in Philosophy, Caltex (SA) Woman graduate of the year, and a Fulbright traveling scholarship to undertake doctoral studies at MIT. Since 1991, Susan has taught at McGill University Montreal, the US Naval Academy Annapolis, Maryland, and the University of Maryland, where she is a tenured Professor of Philosophy.
"The Uni Bar in the mid-1980s. It's packed. I'm there with my mates from the Philosophy Department for a Midnight Oil concert. We're all clutching plastic cups of ice-cold beer. Every cell in my body is alive, vibrating with the music.
A first-generation student, I flunked out of my first year at Adelaide in 1975. But I'm back now and soon to get my BA (that will lead to an Honours degree and a PhD). I am giddy with joy and, finally, a deep sense of belonging"
Paul Iji
PhD (Animal Science) 1999.
Paul left Adelaide in 1999 to work at Ahmadu Bello University, Nigeria, then took up a postdoctoral fellowship in South Africa. He returned to Australia in 2005 and worked for more than 12 years at the University of New England, Armidale. He is currently the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation) at Fiji National University.
"I enrolled at the Roseworthy Campus in 1994 to follow my passion in applied animal nutrition. A seminar meeting at Waite Campus led me to a new supervisor, a young academic from the UK, Dr David Tivey, who had just joined the University. I relocated to Waite six months later. That move altered my career path, with a change to a new research area, digestive physiology. I needed to learn a lot of new laboratory techniques, but I finally settled down to my studies. I graduated in early 1999 and have thoroughly enjoyed my career, all thanks to Dr Tivey."
Tracy Dickens
Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy, 2019.
Tracey presently has a Counselling and Psychotherapy Private Practice in Prospect, South Australia.
"University was a place where my passions blossomed, where knowledge and discovery intertwined to create rich experiences. I was surrounded by diverse minds, and relished exploring my interests, expanding my thinking, and delving deeper into topics that fascinated me. The vibrant campus life, stimulating discussions, and inspiring lecturers fuelled my curiosity and nurtured my growth. I enjoyed the freedom to choose my path, engage in meaningful projects, and collaborate with like-minded individuals. These activities filled my days with excitement and purpose. University offered me a transformative journey, shaping my worldview, fostering enduring friendships, and igniting a lifelong love for learning."
Geoffrey E. Nottle
Mr Nottle, now aged 92, graduated with a Diploma of Arts and Education, 1953, a Bachelor of Arts in 1956 and a Diploma in Primary Education in 1959.
These two delightful photographs of Geoff and his wife Paquita were taken on the same spot, 50 years apart, in 1959 (soon after their wedding) and in 2009, when they returned to campus to celebrate Geoff’s graduation Golden Jubilee.)
"Adelaide’s University and Teachers’ College became complementary hemispheres of my world in 1950, beginning the whole enriching experience that is my fondest memory.
Studies in Arts, Education, sports of baseball, cricket; socialising, on two campuses, filled most days and into the nights.
Respectfully recalled now – inspiring instructors in lectures, tutorials, practicals, excursions; Barr Smith, public libraries; refectory, oval; books read, events attended, roles acted, games played, country correspondence courses, assignments hand-written, three-hour opportunities – results released – jobs done!
“Prosh”, Premiership, Inter-Varsity. Graduations, Blue Dinners, Golden Jubilee Reunions – enduring friendships – all precious parts of the total treasure! Thank you both!"
Noel Schoff
BA 1967 (Majors in History & English) conferred 1st May 1968.
Grad Dip Ed. 1968 conferred 1969 (when I was already teaching).
"As a very young History undergraduate in the mid-1960s, sitting at the metaphorical feet of Professor Hugh Stretton (1924-2015) in the recently completed Napier 1 Lecture Theatre, and being swept away by both his erudition and systematic style of presentation: lectures delivered in an urbane, quiet voice completely without notes, more of a confidential talk than a lecture really; even his droll asides were carefully structured and supremely apposite.
It was at this point I decided to become a history teacher, a career I followed both in South Australia and England for 40 years."
Leighlan Doe
In 2018 I graduated from a Masters of Biotechnology (Plant Biotechnology). I am now a Project Manager in a defence company's IT department. Attached is a picture of me during my (eventual) Masters project, the first time I encountered genetically modified organisms (they were quite friendly being plants and all).
"My fondest memory at the University of Adelaide was messing around in a communal kitchen just off the Math Lawns making bread dough for the first time. To later that day find myself in a high-tech lab essentially giving the dough an infrared ultrasound to try and see if we could determine what types of bubbles were forming in it. Didn't lead to the master's project I was hoping for, but was certainly a cool afternoon!"
Claire Page
I graduated in 2001 from a Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting) then 2002 from a Bachelor of Economics.
"I did love the social time spent between classes, particularly regular lunches in the Union building with fellow commerce friends, but I also loved spending time alone in the Barr Smith Library looking through the books or using a study room. Years later I went back to university to study to be a librarian, and a love of libraries came from that time. I loved the beautiful reading room and the dark corridors of books. I guess I can be a fairly solitary person sometimes and this library gave me important time to myself to concentrate and get work done."
Charles Ng
I am a graduate of 2003 MBA. I am a founder and director of 'Trinity CPA Limited, Certified Public Accountants (Practising)' firm in Hong Kong. I am mainly providing audit assurance, accountancy, secretarial and tax services to our clients.
"I studied at the University of Adelaide as a part time student. I needed to put effort into my job and my study. It made me have good time planning so I could manage them both. It was an enjoyable time, advancing my knowledge and building up work experience. Finally, I passed and finished with my MBA. It is a treasure in study and gives me a memorable state of mind. I hope to extend my lifelong learning experience onward from the University of Adelaide"
Faith Blake
I graduated in 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree, majoring in Creative Writing and Sociology. I am currently a full-time professional staff member at the University of Adelaide in the Central Enrolments team - Student Administration Officer.
"When I crossed the stage to receive my parchment after four years of hard work! Graduating was such a memorable moment for me and was made even more magical by the picturesque Bonython Hall and the ceremonial grandeur."
Romesh Nallia
I graduated with a Bachelors in Dental Surgery in 2000. I’m now the Associate Dean for Clinical Services at University of Michigan School of Dentistry.
"I graduated from the dental school when it was on Frome road. My fondest memory is walking up and down Frome in autumn with all the coloured leaves on the ground. It was like going to another country."
Alison Blackman
Diploma of Music 1960, Bachelor of Music 1975.
"My fondest memories are of attending classes to learn new ideas and information. The interaction with tutors, lecturers and other students was exciting. To go home and prepare assignments was productive.
The social life meant that weekends were filled with sport and evening fun too. I met my first husband at Christmas when he kissed me under the mistletoe. It was a privilege to be part of the campus.
The facilities such as the library, the refectory, the grounds and North Terrace position was an enjoyable place.. . Thank you University of Adelaide."
Anikka Stewart
"Taking over the hub to protest the firing and general unfair treatment of University staff. Being involved in student activism made me feel so powerful at a time in my life when I had very little control. It was extremely cathartic to yell about my issues with 80 other students about such an important issue - the profound sense of community and peer-to-peer understanding is one of the things I miss the most about university."