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Meet Lorien, a Biochemistry student turned Environmental Science major.
Lorien’s degree major change has led them to unexpected passions and personal growth. Through discovering their identity, receiving a diagnosis of narcolepsy and readjusting to a new schedule and degree, Lorien has found comfort in the unknown by trying new things and meeting new people. Now, as they start their Honours year, Lorien is ready to embrace new challenges.
How could one small choice lead to a big change in the way you see the world?
Lorien recently completed a Bachelor of Science at Curtin, majoring in Environmental Science. Initially, Lorien began their degree as a biochemistry major, but a pivotal lab experience led them to rethink their path.
After going on a lab tour, Lorien realised that the environment of a lab was not the ideal workplace for them, which sparked a period of reflection. Lorien chose to explore other options within science, and soon discovered Environmental Science, immediately feeling a connection to it. Despite changing their major, Lorien managed to complete their degree within the standard timeframe, as the degree’s had similar core units.
Lorien has always been fascinated by animals and initially thought they’d pursue a career within that direction. However, throughout their studies, they noticed an unexpected passion for plants after finding the botany units surprisingly enjoyable.
Lorien found university life a significant improvement over high school, particularly in regard to the flexibility. Although the workload feels comparable, being able to personalise their timetable and scheduling needs has made a big difference.
“Not being stuck in a classroom for six hours a day makes a huge difference. I could arrange my timetable so that I only had to be on campus a few days a week, which was great.”
This scheduling difference may benefit anyone who desires a more compact study schedule, but this improvement has been particularly beneficial for Lorien. Lorien has faced unique challenges in their academic journey, including managing narcolepsy, a sleep disorder that causes excessive daytime drowsiness.
“Early morning classes were difficult, and I used to fall asleep in lectures fairly regularly. I was only diagnosed and medicated this year, which has made a huge difference.”
Now, with the right support and strategies in place, they have found a balance that works for them. With a more accommodating structure, they’re able to manage their timetable more effectively, allowing time to prevent overloading. Lorien also developed an effective study routine, planning out their workload at the start of each semester and using a notes app to stay organised.
“This year was the first time I didn’t have my mid-semester crisis of wondering if I’d made the right choice. That tells me I’m exactly where I should be.”
Saying yes to new opportunities has been instrumental in feeling supported and engaged with university social life. Upon coming into university, Lorien’s anxiety impacted their ability to engage with clubs and societies, but through finding strategies to manage it better, they have been able to engage in opportunities in a new way.
“When I first started uni, I joined some clubs, but I didn’t really go. I went to one meeting, got really overwhelmed, left, and didn’t go back. When you have a lot of confidence issues and anxiety, it’s hard to put yourself out there. But being able to go out and do things, and not just be at uni, has been really rewarding.”
Lorien has found that getting involved in the community really does change your experience and helps you to actually enjoy your time at uni. They know that it’s easier said than done, and reminds other students to keep at it, as it has taken them a long time. Joining a Student Guild club (The Curtin Singers) was hard at first, as they didn’t have anyone to go with, but stepping outside their comfort zone allowed them to check it out. Lorien found everyone to be friendly, welcoming and warm, and their biggest advice is to be comfortable in yourself.
“Being comfortable in myself internally makes me more comfortable being myself externally, to others. You go to uni to study, but you can also spend your time trying new things”
As Lorien embarks on their Honours year, they’re excited to deepen their knowledge and see where it leads them. Whether they pursue research, conservation or a field they have yet to discover, Lorien is confident they’ll find the right path.
