By Renee Baker
Science and art are very different fields. A neurosurgeon’s area of expertise will most likely never overlap with an animator’s, nor will a makeup artist share similar work experience as a meteorologist. In most schools, students usually pick either science or art to focus on for the rest of their lives, keeping the other as a hobby, but Alexandre Chan (Class of 2013) has decided that he will master both.
Alex attends the University of Technology in Sydney and is currently working on a double degree: a Bachelor’s in Science and a Bachelor’s in International Studies, majoring in Biotechnology and French. In addition, he is a coordinator of the university’s Glee Club, a group of music enthusiasts who specialize in singing short songs and mashups.
“I chose biotechnology because it’s the future. Stem cell research and bionic arms are a reality! And I chose French because I get to go to France for a year and experience life in a whole different language and culture,” says Alex.
He is amazed with the scope of UTS’ biotechnology classes and looks forward to every new research project he is tasked with. He is also proud to be a part of their Glee Club, which is planning to take their performances nationwide in the next few years. “We’re thinking to broaden our experiences and join a cross-university acappella competition…we’re hoping to be fiery regulars soon.”
Alex’s dream job is a biotechnologist for NASA or an agency of a similar caliber. He recognizes that it will take years of working his way up in small clinics and labs before he can even begin to visualize this dream. “I want to be a scientist who helps create and mold a future. I’d like to develop astronaut gear or modify the human body for space travel.” To top off everything, Alex is also a host at Outback Steakhouse, where he works 30 hours a week. “Working in hospitality is a great experience,” says Alex, adding, “It teaches me how to deal with people with a constant smile on my face. It’s this habit that has shaped my personality to be more positive in life.”
Juggling a job, two majors, and a recreational club is undoubtedly a challenge, but Alex has gained so much experience and confidence as a result. After graduation, he hopes to secure a good contract and work in a laboratory.