From student to scientist: Emma’s freshwater journey
The Studentship Programme, supported by the University of Otago – Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka and Lincoln University – Te Whare Wānaka o Aoraki, supports students across undergraduate and postgraduate study to build careers in science while contributing to Aotearoa’s freshwater knowledge base.
In this Q&A, former summer scholarship student Emma reflects on how her experience with WAI Wānaka shaped her skills, confidence and career direction – and why programmes like this matter for students, communities and freshwater research.
WAI: How did you first hear about the scholarship, and what drew you to it?
Emma: I first heard about the scholarship through a freshwater paper during my studies. At the time, I was studying marine science, so stepping into freshwater research felt like a bit of a change, but I was keen to try something new.
What really appealed to me was the opportunity to lead my own project and work alongside an organisation engaged in freshwater science full-time.
WAI: What project did you work on during your scholarship?
Emma: My project focused on microplastics in drinking water, comparing samples from households in Wānaka and Hāwea. Working under the guidance of a PhD researcher, I collected tap water samples from several different properties and analysed them under a microscope. The aim was to try and gauge the quantity of microplastics making it through the water treatment systems and into our glasses.
The project was great because it gave me a lot of experience in the lab and the field and gave me insight into how freshwater moves from lake to tap and through treatment systems.
WAI: What was it like to arrive and begin the scholarship?
Emma: One of the biggest surprises for me was how much autonomy the scholarship offered. The project wasn’t overly prescribed, so I had the freedom to shape the final output in a way that suited my interests and goals.
I also felt really welcomed by the WAI staff, they provided a lot of support, and I enjoyed being surrounded by people so invested in freshwater.
WAI: What did you learn beyond the science itself?
Emma: I developed a much broader understanding of freshwater issues and the communities connected to them. Through my field work I got to meet a lot of locals, which opened up conversations around the project and why it was important.
I also became more aware of where microplastics come from and how widespread they are in everyday life. It was definitely an eye-opening experiment. It made me think more about how connected our choices are to the environment and the health of freshwater ecosystems.
WAI: How important were mentorship and workplace culture?
Emma: The workplace culture was great. Everyone was very welcoming and supportive of the newbie. I felt comfortable approaching anyone with any questions I had and asking for help. Positive workplace culture is definitely important for me and WAI upholds that!
WAI: What stands out as a highlight for the experience?
Emma: There are two things that really stand out. One was getting the opportunity to join fieldwork on the lake, which gave me insight into other projects as well as my own. The other was presenting my findings at the end of the scholarship. I enjoyed getting the chance to share my work with staff and the wider community and it was encouraging that people were engaged enough to show up!
WAI: Did the scholarship influence your career path?
Emma: Yes, definitely. The experience I gained from the internship opened a lot of doors and helped me make a lot of new professional connections, which has led to different job opportunities like scientific diving and working at DOC. I’d say the scholarship was a key step between university and a career in science.
WAI: What would you say to students considering this programme?
Emma: I would 100% encourage people to apply. It’s a good in-between step from uni to a career and the experience it gives you is great for a resume.
It’s also a good opportunity to make connections in freshwater, gain practical skills and produce your own report, which are all essential for a future in freshwater science.
WAI: Why does support from donors and funders matter?
Emma: I think investment in freshwater research as hugely worthwhile. Even small student projects can add valuable baseline knowledge, highlight local patterns and help build careers that continue contributing to the sector.
Funding also makes a big difference for equity. Paid opportunities mean more students can take part, not just those who can afford unpaid work. In that sense, funding does more than support one project — it helps open the door to a wider range of people entering the field.
WAI: Looking back, why does the programme matter?
Emma: I think the programme matters because it helps shape young people’s careers. It’s a good introduction to applied freshwater science and community engagement.
It also important because it helps build confidence in anyone who is fresh out of uni and looking for a manageable first step into a career in freshwater.
If you’d like to play a part in supporting emerging scientists and advancing freshwater science in Aotearoa, we invite you to donate to this programme. And if you’re a student ready to gain hands-on experience, contribute to meaningful research and explore a future in science, we encourage you to register your interest.
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