Lilian Wang has always enjoyed using technology and computers so choosing to pursue a career in software engineering was a logical step for the Fort Street High student. 

She is especially keen to develop technology that could help people from all walks of life, and contribute to society as a whole.

It’s an aspiration shared by many young people but one that has special meaning for Lilian.

“I have a pretty bad visual impairment, so I have used technology for a lot of my life to help me and I thought it would be great to develop technology that would help other people,” she says.

Lilian is one of 6,109 students who have received offers to study at UNSW Sydney in 2018.

Offers made to date are up on 2017, with a record number of high-performing students given guaranteed entry. UNSW has attracted 188 of the top 500 students in NSW and the ACT as overall demand for programs across the University remain strong.

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Lilian Wang has been accepted to study a Bachelor of Software Engineering at UNSW. Photo: Supplied

“The strong demand this year reflects the fact that people recognise the world is changing and are looking for high quality degrees that equip them for a global future,” says Professor Merlin Crossley, UNSW Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic.

“It’s particularly pleasing to see so many female students being attracted to STEM areas. Our Dean of Science Emma Johnston and leader of Quantum Computing, the NSW Australian of the Year Michelle Simmons, are changing the perception of science and technology in Australia and the world.”

Lilian will embark on a Bachelor of Software Engineering with the assistance of a UNSW Co-op Scholarship, which provides students with financial assistance and industry experience. She was especially attracted by the opportunity of undertaking an internship with a major company such as CBA or Atlassian.

“The main reason I wanted the scholarship was for the work experience where I will be able to see the real-life implications of the things I will be studying,” she says.

Co-op scholars are selected not only for their academic ability, but also their communication skills, motivation and leadership potential, as well as their passion for and understanding of the industry they are applying for.