Nivetha Sivarajah
PhD in Agronomy & Soil Science
UNE Student Council - Postgraduate Student Representative
What are you studying?
I am a second-year PhD student in agronomy & soil science researching microplastic pollution in agricultural soils. I am an on-campus student living at Wright College.
What is the UNE Student Council and what does your role entail?
The UNE Student Council is a representative body at the University of New England that advocates for students and fosters a vibrant campus community. I am one of the international student representatives and my role entails advocating for international student's needs and facilitating communication between the university and the international student community to enhance their overall experience.
Should students get involved with the UNE Student Council?
I recommend students to be involved with the UNE Council because it provides an excellent opportunity to improve the student experience, advocate for meaningful changes on behalf of the student community and help develop leadership and communication skills.
What have been your biggest achievements and challenges in your study journey so far?
My biggest achievement in my journey so far is the extraction method which I developed during the first year of PhD to extract microplastics from diverse agricultural soil types, addressing the lack of a standardized method in this field. This method will help researchers to understand microplastic pollution in agricultural soil. The biggest challenge is being away from family for the first time, but the unwavering support from my supervisors, mentors, the UNE community, my mother and my husband has kept me motivated and focused.
What has been your favourite unit so far?
My curiosity about how microplastics migrate through the soil profile and are taken up by plants makes this research deeply engaging. I am deepening my understanding of emerging microplastic pollution in agricultural soil to contribute to solving global environmental challenges through this important work.
What have you learnt about yourself through university?
Through my undergraduate days, I’ve learned that I am naturally a happy and social person who enjoys engaging with others. Moving to an English-speaking country initially made me shy and hesitant, causing me to stay in my comfort zone. However, I was determined to overcome this and applied for the role of Resident leader at Wright College, which helped me break out of my shell and become more confident. Now, I see myself thriving in social and leadership roles, actively engaging with people as part of UNESC, Wright College, and the Postgraduate Student Society.
Do you study around other interests and commitments?
I enjoy running, reading and doodling. I love spending time in nature, especially under the beautiful, vibrant colours of the Armidale sky. I value quality time with my family and love travelling with my husband on our motorbike.
Any advice you might give to other uni students or your younger self?
how up and make meaningful connections. University life is about more than academic success; it’s about building relationships, learning from others, and growing personally and professionally. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone, of course, it’s a bit hard initially but it will boost your confidence and life skills. These meaningful connections can open doors, provide support, and help you develop skills that will benefit you long after you graduate.
Anything else you’d like to add?
You can get in touch with me via email at snivetha@myune.edu.au
