Meet Shannon Diamond, a dedicated student pursuing a Bachelor of Science with a double major in Conservation and Wildlife Biology and Environmental Science and Management at Murdoch University.

Originally from Pingelly, Shannon has always been drawn to the natural world. “Growing up in a rural area, I’ve always been close to nature, and I saw firsthand the environmental challenges we face, like species conservation and sustainability,” Shannon shares. “My interest in conservation biology and environmental science developed because I wanted to make a real difference in protecting natural habitats and the biodiversity around us.”

Studying from a rural location has presented its own set of challenges. Long distances to university, limited local resources, and balancing multiple jobs often meant long, tiring days. “Living rurally means I’ve had to commute long distances to university and work, but it’s also given me hands-on experience with environmental challenges unique to the Wheatbelt,” Shannon explains. “The natural landscape here is inspiring, but it can be challenging balancing university with the long travel times and limited local resources.”

In addition to commuting, Shannon also worked a variety of jobs to support her studies. Managing these responsibilities while staying focused on her academic goals required serious dedication and time management. “I’ve relied a lot on time management, setting routines, and finding study spaces that keep me focused, like the Lumen Study Hub. Building resilience, especially when dealing with long days of travel, working three jobs and volunteer duties, has been crucial,” she says.

Through her studies, Shannon has gained an in-depth understanding of the environment and this has changed how she sees things in her daily life. “Learning about ecological systems, the climate, and species interactions gave me a clearer understanding of how everything in nature is interconnected,” Shannon explains. “Even day-to-day, I find myself looking at the environment through this lens, noticing things others might miss and understanding their significance.”

One of the key aspects of her success has been the support she’s received at the Lumen Narrogin Study Hub. “The Study Hub has been a game-changer, giving me a quiet space with all the necessary resources, making the commute worthwhile and allowing me to focus without distractions,” she says. “Especially this last semester where I have had some full-on exams. Without this hub, I honestly do not think I would have scored so well in my exams!”

Looking ahead, Shannon has a bright future planned, “I’ve been fortunate to go on some incredible field trips that have expanded my hands-on learning and passion for conservation. I’ve explored unique places like Penguin Island and John Forrest National Park, had behind-the-scenes access to Perth Zoo’s breeding programs, and visited the DBCA Herbarium and the Australian Wildlife Conservancy. I’ve also participated in scientific surveying along various estuaries. Coming up, I have an exciting scholarship trip to Bhutan, where I’ll be able to gain more international experience in conservation—something I’m really looking forward to!”

Shannon’s advice for anyone considering their future after school is simple: “Don’t rush the decision. It’s okay to explore and take time figuring things out. Forget any negative opinions from school; follow your passion. If you want something, work hard for it, and believe that it’s achievable. You are also never too old to start something or learn something new!

If she could give her younger self a piece of advice it would be to “Stay open to opportunities, and don’t hesitate to follow your interests even if they feel challenging or unconventional. Everything you learn will be useful in some way.”

Thanks Shannon, for sharing your story with us.