Seraphine Panos (she/her)

Hello everyone! 

My name is Seraphine, and I am studying a combined degree in Bachelor of Chemical Engineering and Bachelor of Science (Chemistry). I am entering my fifth and final year in 2026, during which I will complete my honours project. 

I have always loved science and engineering. When I was younger, my favourite activities were playing with science kits and pulling things apart to understand how they worked. Choosing to study science and engineering was therefore an easy decision. In high school, I particularly enjoyed chemistry, which led me to pursue chemical engineering. Later, I added a science degree with a chemistry major so that I could return to the laboratory work I loved during school. 

After graduation, my plan is to begin working in industry—either in water purification if I remain in Newcastle, or in food, beverages, or pharmaceuticals if I relocate to another city. 

I am proud of what I have achieved both inside and outside university. I have earned almost entirely high distinctions across my courses and received several academic awards. In addition, I completed a study exchange at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore in 2024, followed by a research internship there, and later an internship with Mitsubishi Group in Japan. 

Study expenses can add up quickly, and I am extremely grateful to Jess Bastow and The Pinnacle Foundation for providing this scholarship, which helps me stay on top of those costs.