Chanchal Viju found purpose in sustainability through hands-on learning

Choosing a degree with real-world impact

Chanchal knew they wanted to study sustainability after attending a UTS Open Day and learning how the degree approaches complex global challenges.

"I learned about the Sustainability and Environment degree, where complex problems such as the climate crisis are tackled using the UN's 17 Sustainable Development Goals as a framework."

That practical, solutions-focused approach made UTS an easy choice.

"In Year 10 I visited several Sydney universities, but I fell in love with UTS almost immediately. Learning about the university's own sustainability initiatives made me realise this was somewhere that genuinely put its values into practice."

Learning in the field

Although Chanchal expected to enjoy laboratory work the most, it was the field experiences that became the highlight of their degree.

"Where do I even begin?" they say. "I have made the most rewarding and cherished memories of my life through UTS and the friends I met in my degree and diploma. The highlight of my degree is most definitely the field trips."

Throughout their studies, Chanchal has collected water and plankton samples at Manly Dam, monitored birds in Gosford, surveyed pollinators in the Royal Botanic Gardens, and explored ecosystems across Sydney's national parks.

"These field trips mimicked real-life jobs in the sustainability field and taught me so much about teamwork, interpersonal skills, and opened my mind to this kind of work."

The experience even changed how they saw their future career.

"I am truly an introvert that dreamed of doing sample analysis in a laboratory instead of field work. However, these field trips ended up being the highlight of my time at UTS."

Back on campus, students develop practical laboratory skills in the HIVE Super Lab, analysing environmental samples and gaining experience with industry-standard equipment.

Chanchal says the support they found at UTS also helped them settle into university life after moving to Sydney on their own.

"I remember feeling unsure of my abilities when I first moved to Sydney," they say. "Student-led services like the Night Owl Noodle Bar and the Bluebird Pantry made campus feel like a safe space to study, connect with friends, and find my feet."

Building confidence for the future

A two-time recipient of the Dean's Merit Award for Academic Excellence, Chanchal hopes to build a career that combines laboratory research, environmental science, and sustainability.

"I want to pursue a career where my work directly benefits nature here in Australia and possibly overseas in Japan."

"I want to move beyond climate anxiety and be part of the solution."

Looking back on four years at UTS, Chanchal says the biggest lesson has been believing in their own abilities.

"I thought someone was pranking me when I received the (Dean’s Merit) award. I never believed I could achieve top marks while balancing university life until I gained the confidence to trust myself."

Their advice to future students is simple.

"Advocate for yourself.

"I held back on applying for internships and jobs because I didn't think I was good enough. My time at UTS showed me that wasn't true.

"You will surprise yourself with how smart and hardworking you are. Many people miss out on opportunities because of self-doubt, but if someone offers you that opportunity, they've chosen you for a reason."

Explore Sustainability and Environment at UTS.