Liam Kelly-Sigurdsson

Liam Kelly-Sigurdsson is a current final year student studying a dual degree in Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Mining) and Bachelor of Arts at UNSW. Liam was awarded the Mitsubishi Rural Scholarship in Mining Engineering which assists high achieving students from rural or isolated areas commencing studies in the Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Mining)program at UNSW. Students may also be given the opportunity to undergo industrial training with Mitsubishi when opportunities arise. 

We spoke to Liam about why he chose to study mining engineering at UNSW and how this scholarship supported his education. 

Which degree are you currently doing and why you choose it? 

I am currently studying a dual degree in Bachelor of Mining Engineering (Honours) and Bachelor of Arts. I grew up in the Hunter Valley Region and was fortunate enough to attend an Industry Dinner put on by UNSW School of Minerals and Energy Resources Engineering. It was after this dinner I decided to study mining engineering after realising the opportunities, knowing that I enjoyed problem solving and travel. I recently decided to add a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in Global Development and International Business to diversify my knowledge and increase employability.  

Which Scholarship do you hold and what has it meant for you to be awarded this Scholarship? 

I was given the Mitsubishi Rural Mining Engineering Scholarship. I feel extremely privileged to be awarded this scholarship, as the cost of living out of home in Sydney was a huge obstacle that would have stopped me from attending UNSW. The scholarship eases the financial burden and allows me to focus on my study and to embrace the university lifestyle.  

How do you think your studies at UNSW will help in your career aspirations? 

UNSW is a world class university and definitely provides all the necessary tools to succeed from study into the workforce. Being the number 1 engineering university in Australia attracts the greatest post-study opportunities, as companies appreciate the high-quality students being produced. I think studying at UNSW has given me a greater opportunity to succeed in my career aspirations due to being confident in my education.    

Can you share something about the resources & energy industry that might interest someone considering studies and a career in this industry? 

The opportunities and variety in the resource and energy industry is so vast that there is honestly a job for everyone. Australia alone mines over 19 different minerals all with unique engineering skills required. These range from underground mining to open cut mining, offshore mining and even off earth mining. Whether you enjoy a more hands-on workplace or enjoy financial calculations, the resources industry covers it all. The opportunities both domestically and internationally are unrivalled, and the current technological and sustainable developments within the industry are extremely exciting.   

What advice would you give to a new/future student on how to excel at your degree? 

Ask questions (even if it’s after class) and definitely get to know other people in your course, they will be your support network for the next 4 years. Another advice is to join the Facebook group chats for your subjects! 

What are your favourite things to do in or around UNSW and how can students make the most out of the UNSW Experience? 

Definitely embrace the university lifestyle, I was fortunate enough to attend UNSW Hall. It is a residential college where I made friends from not only around country but the entire globe. Be involved in societies as there is always events and it’s a great way to meet like-minded individuals. My favourite things to do around UNSW would be sneaking off to Coogee beach (which is a 15min walk) in between lectures in the summer or going for cheap dumplings along Anzac Parade with friends.  

For more information on the Mitsubishi Rural Scholarship in Mining Engineering eligibility criteria and to apply, click here.