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Diego Avi

Diego Avi completed his master’s degree in Environmental Science in July 2023 and is currently working full-time in the environmental sector.

What were you doing before you commenced your postgraduate study?

Before starting my Master’s at ANU in September 2020, I completed a Bachelor’s degree in Natural and Environmental Sciences at the University of Siena in Italy

What do you enjoy doing with your free time? 

I really enjoy cooking, reading, hanging out with friends, and playing tennis, which I love.

Why did you choose ANU? 

I chose ANU for its global reputation and its ability to equip graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to build successful careers. Additionally, ANU offered a diverse range of courses that captured my interest, along with excellent facilities and a vibrant community of students and staff.

What professional development opportunities have you had at ANU? 

While studying at ANU, I had numerous opportunities to engage with professionals across various industries, gaining valuable insights into potential career pathways and opportunities. For instance, during my second year, I worked on a research project funded by the Office of Nature Conservation that focused on the impact of the 2019–2020 fires on hollow-bearing trees in Namadgi National Park. This project also examined how altered fire regimes could affect their availability in the future. Additionally, I completed an internship with the ACT Parks and Conservation Service, where I designed and implemented a pilot monitoring program for birds and mammals in remnants of native vegetation within the ACT pine plantation estate.

What did you like most about your student experience?

I thoroughly enjoyed being part of a multicultural community and having the opportunity to meet people from all over the world. Additionally, the numerous events hosted on campus made being part of the ANU community an incredible experience.

What opportunities have been made available to you during your degree? 

Throughout my academic career, I have had the opportunity to participate in field trips, conferences, and meetings, as well as attend training sessions and collaborate with researchers on various projects. For example, during my second year at ANU, I worked as a research assistant on a project investigating the impact of climate change on some of the most common tree species in major Australian cities. These experiences have been invaluable in helping me develop new skills, expand my professional network, and remain beneficial even after completing my Master’s degree.

What extracurricular activities did you participate in at ANU? 

Being a postgraduate student at ANU required dedicating a significant amount of time to assignments, projects, and preparation for lectures and seminars. Despite this, I was able to participate in numerous extracurricular activities, including field trips, meetings, and events. These experiences provided fantastic opportunities to meet new people and explore places I had never visited before.

Did you receive any prizes/scholarships while studying at ANU?

Unfortunately, scholarships for European students interested in studying in Australia are quite limited, and I was not fortunate enough to receive one. As a result, studying at ANU came with significant financial challenges. Nevertheless, I am proud to share that I was awarded the Outstanding Academic Performance prize for achieving a perfect Grade Point Average of 7.00/7.00 over the entire academic year.

What is your favourite thing about living in Canberra? 

Canberra, the capital city of Australia, is relatively small compared to other major capitals. This gives it the unique advantage of offering all the benefits of a capital city without many of the drawbacks associated with larger cities, such as pollution, traffic, and crime. With its excellent infrastructure, high-quality services, and abundant green spaces, Canberra is a uniquely desirable place to live.

This time next year, where do you see yourself? 

I am thoroughly enjoying my time in Canberra for all the reasons I have mentioned and can easily see myself living here this time next year. That said, I am also eager to explore more of Australia and remain open to any opportunities that come my way.

Any advice for future students? 

My advice to future students is to take full advantage of every opportunity ANU has to offer and to step outside their comfort zone whenever possible. It may be challenging, but I can promise that it will be worth it!