A Story of Passion and Perseverance
Emily Schultz’s journey to becoming a Liveris Academy Undergraduate Scholarship recipient is one of determination and vision. From discovering the scholarship in high school to reapplying after an initial setback, her story highlights the power of persistence and the value of being part of a community that fosters innovation and leadership.
In this article, Emily reflects on how the scholarship has shaped her academic journey and fueled her passion for sustainability in chemical engineering and environmental science
What inspired you to apply for the Liveris Academy Undergraduate Scholarship?
I first discovered the Liveris Academy Undergraduate Scholarship while I was still in high school. From the moment I read about it, I was inspired by the kind of community it fosters. The idea of being surrounded by passionate, driven students from all over Australia, each working towards creating a more sustainable and innovative future, really stood out to me. I applied after graduating high school, but I wasn’t successful in my first attempt.
Even though I didn’t get it the first time, that initial interest never left me. During my first year at university, I started to meet and learn more about students who were part of the Liveris Academy. I saw how they carried themselves, the leadership roles they held, and the impact they were making — not just academically, but within the broader community. They were exactly the kind of people I wanted to learn from and grow alongside. It became clear to me that the Academy wasn’t just a scholarship; it was a platform for growth, collaboration, and real-world impact.
That’s what motivated me to reapply. I’ve always believed in surrounding myself with people who inspire me, who challenge me to be better — and the Liveris Academy felt like the perfect place to do that. I want to contribute to and grow within a community that values innovation, leadership, and sustainability just as much as I do.
How has receiving this scholarship impacted your academic journey?
The scholarship has had a huge impact on my academic journey so far. One of the biggest things I’ve appreciated is how much effort the Academy puts into organising workshops, speaker events, and networking opportunities. Through these, I’ve met so many incredible individuals — not just within engineering, but from all different fields — who genuinely inspire me with their drive, passion, and commitment to their studies.
Being part of this community has pushed me to aim higher and think more critically about my own goals. One workshop that really stood out was focused on critical thinking. It challenged the way I approach problems and gave me tools I know I’ll continue to use throughout uni and beyond. Overall, being part of the Liveris Academy has helped shape how I view learning — not just as something academic, but as something connected to leadership, collaboration, and real-world impact.
How do you envision using your degree to make a positive impact in your field or community?
I’m studying chemical engineering and environmental science because I want to drive meaningful change in how industries interact with the environment. My goal is to introduce innovative, sustainable solutions that help reduce environmental impact while still supporting industrial growth. Beyond the academic side, I’m also passionate about creating a more inclusive and supportive community within engineering. As a Senior EAIT Leader and a Women in Engineering Student Leader, I’ve had the opportunity to mentor students, lead initiatives, and help build a culture where everyone feels like they belong. Representation and support can make a huge difference, especially in a field where many still feel out of place. I hope to keep empowering others, especially young women, to step into leadership, explore STEM pathways, and feel confident in their abilities.
Looking ahead, where do you see yourself five years after graduation?
Five years after graduation, I see myself working in industry as a chemical or environmental engineer, ideally in a role where I can contribute to sustainable change. My plan is to begin my career working on-site — whether that’s at a mining operation, processing plant, or in the energy or water sector — to gain practical, hands-on experience. I think it’s so important to understand the real-world challenges and day-to-day operations that happen on the ground, and I’m really looking forward to being in that kind of environment straight out of uni.
After a few years on-site, I’d love to transition into an office-based role in a city, ideally stepping into a position with more responsibility or leadership. I hope to be part of the decision-making process, helping to shape more sustainable practices within industry and lead projects that have both environmental and economic impact.
What’s been the most surprising or unexpected aspect of your university experience so far?
The most surprising part of my uni experience so far has been the sense of community and the way opportunities are so interconnected. I knew there would be lots going on at uni, but I didn’t expect just how much everything would overlap. People you meet in one space — whether it’s a club, a class, or a networking event — often pop up in other areas too. It creates this diverse and supportive web of connections.
What’s been really refreshing is how, even on such a big campus, you start to recognise familiar faces everywhere. A friend from one group might introduce you to someone in another, who you then realise you’ve already crossed paths with through a completely different opportunity. It makes the uni experience feel more connected and personal, and it’s helped me feel more at home here.
