Meet Bec, an adventurous and passionate student pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in history with a “Go Local” specialisation. She stands out for her fervent commitment to preserving the environment. Delving into the unique sphere of the ‘Go Local’ specialisation, which harnesses indigenous wisdom for sustainable development, Bec has artfully woven her passion for history into a narrative of ecological advocacy.
Bec’s academic journey is driven by an intense passion for history, a subject that not only captivates her but also serves as a lens to decipher the intricacies of the complementary world. Despite her unwavering enthusiasm for historical narratives, her path took an unexpected yet enriching detour. Transitioning from her initial Biomed course to a Bachelor of Arts in History, she seamlessly inter wove her deep-rooted love for the past with her aspirations for a more environmentally conscious future.
Enrolled in the ‘Go Local’ specialisation, Bec immerses herself in the intricate web of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a primary focus on SDG 15 – Life on Land. Her unwavering dedication stems from her Serpentine community’s battle against the detrimental effects of mining practices leading to rampant deforestation, particularly in sensitive water catchment areas. Driven by a desire to effect change at the grassroots level, Bec recognised her unique position and decided to take action.
“Coming from a small rural area, seeing that we can be represented in this way and we’re actively working to achieve these goals, to make the area a better place, living and working to improve the environment, is what motivated me to enrol in this elective unit.”
Bec’s experience in the program has been infused with a holistic approach that transcends conventional academic constraints. The program encourages students to explore Indigenous knowledge systems and apply them to contemporary issues. This refreshing departure from traditional learning has allowed her to forge a deeper connection with nature and the world at large.
Reflecting on her journey, Bec emphasises the significance of the program’s interactive classes, where a free flow of ideas fosters creative thinking and holistic problem-solving. Her advice to fellow students is simple yet powerful – perseverance. Encouraging her peers to engage with the coursework and participate in discussions actively, she underscores the ever-present opportunity to learn and grow.
“You keep learning. There’s never a point where you think I have all the knowledge. There’s still so much more knowledge to gain.”
Bec’s evolution at Curtin has extended beyond the realms of academia. Her shift in perspective, from a conventional mindset to one that embraces diverse viewpoints, has profoundly impacted her overall outlook. Recognising the synergy between her chosen elective and her history degree, she emphasises the value of interdisciplinary learning and the potential it holds for personal and professional growth.
Looking ahead, Bec’s aspirations remain rooted in her love for history. Eager to contribute to the preservation and dissemination of Australian history, she envisions herself delving deeper into the subject, possibly pursuing a master’s degree. With an unwavering dedication to her roots and a relentless pursuit of knowledge, she aims to ensure that the pages of history unfold and resonate with future generations.
