Scarlett Gilmartin
Women of STEM Scholarship Winner
Award Date:
2026
STEM Interests
Currently studying a Bachelor of Biological Science majoring in Wildlife Conservation
A Bit About Me
I grew up in a regional country town called Albany (400kms south of Perth) with my parents and sister. I enjoy staying active through sports and spending time socialising with friends. Alongside my studies, I work part-time as a swim teacher, which has helped me build confidence and responsibility. I’ve recently started at the University of Western Australia (UWA) studying a Bachelor of Biological Science, majoring in Wildlife conservation.
Questions and Answers
Tell us about someone who inspires you and why
How did you become interested in STEM?
What are you most looking forward to about studying STEM at university?
How will the Women of STEM Scholarship assist you?
I’m inspired most by my parents, who have always supported me while encouraging independence and hard work. Growing up in a regional town, I saw the value of resilience and community, which shaped my mindset. I’m also inspired by people working in conservation and biological sciences, as their work protecting ecosystems and wildlife motivates me in my studies. More personally, the students and people around me who balance work, study, and life push me to stay focused and keep improving.
I’ve been interested in STEM from a young age, largely because of my love for the outdoors. Growing up, I often went camping with my family, which sparked my curiosity about nature, wildlife, and how different ecosystems function. Being surrounded by the environment made me want to understand it on a deeper level. Throughout school, I took my interest further, by studying ATAR Biology and Human biology, where I could connect what I was learning to real-world environments. This passion ultimately led me to pursue a Bachelor of Biological Science, where I hope to apply my knowledge to conservation and protecting natural ecosystems.
I’m most looking forward to gaining a deeper understanding of the natural world and developing practical skills through my studies. I’m especially excited about the hands-on aspects of STEM at university, like fieldwork and labs, where I can apply what I’ve learned in real-world settings. I’m also looking forward to meeting like-minded people who share similar interests and learning from experienced lecturers. Overall, I’m excited to challenge myself, expand my knowledge, and work towards a career where I can contribute to conservation and protecting the environment.
This scholarship will support me by easing the financial pressure that comes with studying at university, allowing me to focus more on my studies and make the most of the opportunities available. It will also help me continue balancing my part-time job as a swim teacher while prioritising my academic goals. Beyond financial support, receiving this scholarship would motivate me to keep working hard and striving for success in my degree. It would give me the confidence and stability to fully commit to my studies and pursue a future in biological science and conservation.
What job do you hope to pursue after graduating from university?
After graduating, I hope to pursue a role in the mining industry, particularly in environmental management or rehabilitation. I’m interested in working on-site to ensure that mining operations are conducted sustainably and that ecosystems are protected and restored. This pathway allows me to combine my passion for science with practical, real-world applications. I’m especially interested in contributing to environmental monitoring and land rehabilitation, helping minimise the impact of mining on surrounding ecosystems while supporting responsible resource development.
