Like many children, Kelly Saunders grew up loving animals, but what separated her from most was her fascination with those that had also walked the Earth millions of years ago.
After a stint of primary school teaching, the Hunter Valley local decided it was time to pursue her lifelong passion and enrol in an Undergraduate Certificate of Paleontology at UNE, followed by an online Bachelor of Zoology (Palaeobiology).
“It’s fascinating to learn about ecosystems that haven’t existed for millions of years,” says Kelly who is halfway through her degree.
“One UNE lecturer really resonated with me when they said that if we just look at the human records of species and ecosystems, we only have centuries of data. If we investigate the fossil record, we have millions of years of data which can better inform us of ecosystems and how they respond to change.”
So far, Kelly has thrived academically. In 2024, she was one of just 100 students across Australia selected for the Elevate STEM program, which included a $30,000 scholarship and industry networking opportunities with both the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences & Engineering and Defence Science.
More recently, Kelly was awarded the Graduate Women NSW Inc Prize in Biology.
“This was a really nice surprise, and the recognition of all of my hard work feels great,” she says.
“I hope that it helps me with my pursuit into postgraduate study.”
During her studies, Kelly has also had the opportunity to put her teaching skills to good use.
Not only have I grown academically, but also personally.
In 2025, she became a PASS leader, supporting other students following in her footsteps.
“It’s like a group study session but one of the group members has completed the unit before. I love helping other students and I also feel like it has helped me as well. Going back through units and content has really solidified my own learning.”
Kelly says her time at UNE has been so much more than what she was expecting, spurring her on to hopefully pursue postgraduate study when she finishes her degree.
“I have loved my time at UNE and I’ve learned so much,” she says.
“I’ve made so many friends and most importantly I feel like I’ve changed so much. Not only have I grown academically, but also personally.”
As for her advice for other students, she has one thing to say:
“Study what you are passionate about. STEM is such an amazing field with applications everywhere.”
