Double degree – double opportunity

As she comes to the end of the third year of her Bachelor of Fine Arts / Advanced Science (Honours), Amy Wong answers five quick questions about her choice to combine science and visual arts.

What inspired you to pursue your double degree?

I loved studying both Earth and Environmental Science and Visual Arts in high school, which inspired me to combine these interests at university. Majoring in ecology, drawing and painting, I’ve always intended to celebrate the environment through my artistic practice and explore the relationship between science and the creative arts.

I believe art is a powerful tool for communicating complex ideas – making them engaging, accessible and meaningful for wider audiences in fun, challenging and innovative ways.

What are you hoping to do after graduation?

I plan to continue working as a freelance artist and designer. I’ve been fortunate to practice professionally while studying, working with the City of Sydney, Market City, Cumberland Council, Outloud, ABC Radio and Arc UNSW.

Through these projects, I’ve discovered a passion for creating public art installations and leading community-based, collaborative projects that support wellbeing, raise awareness, and bring joy to everyday life. I hope to continue this work while developing my own artistic projects – and one day, I would love to teach young artists how to build creative careers that are fulfilling and meaningful.

What’s been the most rewarding part of studying two disciplines at once?

The most rewarding part has been developing strong lateral and critical thinking skills. Studying across disciplines teaches you how to connect ideas in unexpected ways.

My double degree has been particularly enriching because Science and Fine Arts are so different – one is rational and analytical, the other conceptual and creative. Learning to move between these modes of thinking has expanded my skill set and opened up possibilities for what I can do during my studies and beyond.

How do you balance the workload and mindset shifts between the two fields?

I’ve found it most effective to focus on one field at a time. I completed two years of full-time Ecology first, then shifted to doing my Fine Arts courses part-time while also working professionally. Because Fine Arts can be particularly demanding, I usually take two courses per trimester so I can give proper attention and energy to my creative projects.

I’m now back to full-time study and will likely mix both disciplines in my final year, which feels like a meaningful way to bring the degree together.

What advice do you have for someone considering a double degree?

Be clear about your intentions and what you hope to gain from a double degree. If you're a lateral thinker or someone who wants to broaden your options, it can be an incredibly rewarding path.

Some of my older peers who studied only one degree have said they wish they’d explored another field while they had the chance, as they now feel confined to a single industry.

There’s no shame in taking longer to finish your studies – sometimes that extra time is what helps you discover what truly aligns with you. There is so much to explore, and so many meaningful ways to contribute to the world. Be creative in imagining not just the career you want, but the life you want to lead.

What is a highlight of your time at UNSW?

I come from a Buddhist background, and this year I’ve been exploring and learning about Christianity and Catholicism.

Beyond the inspiring teachers and assignments I’ve encountered throughout my degree, meeting the right people has made the biggest difference. I’ve been incredibly grateful to find a warm and welcoming community in Campus Bible Study – some of the loveliest and most thoughtful friends I’ve met at uni.

I’m grateful for the sense of community at UNSW, and I hope we continue to nurture it.