At the Australian National University’s School of Resources, Environment and Society, we spoke with two extremely interesting and dedicated lecturers: Dr Cris Brack and Dr John Field. From Dr Brack we learnt about the structure and advantages of studying degrees in Forestry or Research and Environmental Management at ANU:

•  Forestry degree – the four year Bachelor of Science degree in Forestry is focused on forest science, conservation and management. The degree leads to diverse careers in forest science and management, in urban and rural environments, in conservation and sustainable production, and in forest-based industries.

•  Resource and Environmental Management (REM) degree – the School of Resources, Environment and Society (SRES) offers a three year Bachelor of Science degree in Resource and Environmental Management – BSc (REM). The degree provides a strong background in natural resource sciences and management that prepares students for a wide variety of careers.

Dr Brack also encouraged us to study at ANU, no matter what career path we choose, because of its excellence in teaching and research, wide choice of double degrees, high level of student satisfaction and because it is a world class university.

After the presentation, we were able to participate in a practical activity that involved some very expensive and sophisticated equipment. By using many types of surveying instruments, we were able to determine the heights of many of the trees around the campus.

Dr Field then proceeded to demonstrate many of the practical applications of a REM degree by showing us the dangers of many household products, such as toothpaste (the fluoride dissolves the inner part of the tooth which increases chances of developing osteoporosis) and deodorants (contain aluminium compounds which may increase the chance of developing Alzheimer’s disease). We were also able to determine the pH and electrical conductivity of many typical household substances such as shampoo, conditioner, soap and dishwashing liquid. Dr Field left us with the message of “think globally, act locally” and encouraged us to think about the notion of sustainability and the environment.

Matilda-Jane Oke