Tuckwell Talks Podcast: Conversations with Scholars

Episode #42 Lucy Kirk (2014) and Reshmi Senanayake (2024) Lucy Kirk, is an Alumna from the 2014 cohort, now working in Newcastle as an Intensive Care Registrar. Reshmi asks about her pathway to ANU and medicine.  Lucy recalls being in the first cohort, living at Ursula Hall, shaping early program activities and building lasting cohort bonds. Lucy also shares how life on-campus, colleges, clubs, IB and academic tutoring shaped her identity, and advises getting involved and using undergraduate years for personal growth. She explains why she chose medicine and reflects on the realities of training, workload, and staying grounded in one’s purpose. Lucy also discusses formative regional and remote experiences in Cairns, emphasising healthcare breadth, humility, teamwork, and patients’ resilience.

In this episode of Tuckwell Talks, Rhys Joseland (2025) chats with Alum, Jeevan Haikerwal (2015). Rhys and Jeevan are 10 cohorts apart and from the same town, Williamstown, Victoria! Jeevan studied a Bachelor of Philosophy, Politics and Economics before completing Philosophy Honours. Jeevan reflects on his wide involvement at ANU, including musical theatre, political society activities, O-Week directing, and outlines a career path through politics, strategy consulting at Accenture, and four years at Foxtel.

Listen as 2021 Scholars Caitlin McManus-Barrett and Katja Curtin, host 2014 Alumni Guy Leckenby on Tuckwell Talks. From Coffs Harbour on the mid-north coast to a Postdoc in nuclear astrophysics in Bordeaux! Guy graduated with a Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours)(Science) with First Class Honours in Physics in 2017 and shares his experience as a Tuckwell Scholar from the original cohort. From his early inspiration at CERN to his significant research accomplishments at the University of British Columbia, Guy shares his journey, the impact of the Tuckwell scholarship, and the valuable lessons learned from his time in Bruce Hall and the trials and tribulations of IB! Discover how resilience, making tough decisions, unexpected opportunities, international experiences such as being a Snowsports instructor in Hakuba, Japan, research tourism, culture shock and being flexible and open to opportunities have shaped his career journey so far.

Join us for another insightful episode as Head of Scholars House, Michelle Barrett speaks with Carina Stone, an alumna from the 2017 cohort who studied Economics and Law. Currently pursuing her Master's in Public Policy at Harvard Kennedy School, Carina shares her experiences working on disrupting financial abuse through her summer internship in Sydney. We delve into the intersection of law, economics, and public policy, highlighting her work with social entrepreneur, Catherine Fitzpatrick. Carina shares stories of her time at ANU, her exchange in France, and her experiences in Darwin. She emphasizes the importance of staying connected with the Tuckwell community, lifelong friendships, and advocating for change.

Discovering Diverse Passions - Science, Politics, and Art In this episode, we hear from Katja Curtin, a dynamic 2021 Tuckwell Scholar in her fifth year at ANU pursuing a Bachelor of Science, Honors and a Bachelor of International Relations. Katja shares her experience of focusing on her honours project in Physics of the Earth, using climate models to analyse the Antarctic ice sheet's impact on oceans. She speaks about her engagement in climate and environmental policies, inspired by her high school's support for climate activism. Katja also discusses her involvement with Engineers Without Borders, where she contributes to engineering solutions and education in developing countries. Additionally, she touches on her passion for animation, having worked as a freelance artist. With her broad academic pursuits, Katja reflects on her the opportunities and challenges of studying away from home. From working with former Tuckwell Fellows such as AJ Mitchell, degree dilemmas, COVID times, student theatre and navigating homesickness, Katja provides a candid insight into the life of a Tuckwell Scholar.

#37 Mary Parker and Anthony Ricci - 2015 Alumni, From Scholarships to Lifelong Friendships In this special episode of the Tuckwell Talks podcast, Anthony and Mary, both 2015 cohort Alumni and recent selection panelists, reflect on their individual experiences as they reminisce about the application process, their own selection weekend, living in Bruce Hall and share houses, pranks in the OG Scholars House (Molly Huxley), and their transformative years at the ANU. The conversation broadens as they discuss their transition from university life to their professional careers, and the enduring friendships and networks formed through the scholarship. The episode also highlights the supportive, close-knit, inspiring Scholars House community. Don't miss this one!

Exploring Housing Policy with Matt Bowes: Insights from a Grattan Institute Associate  Join Michelle as she chats with Matt, a 2015 scholar who majored in PPE with honors in Arts and Chinese, to discuss his current role at the Grattan Institute. Matt shares his journey from his studies at ANU, his experience in public policy research, and his involvement in housing and economics. Hear how growing up in Melbourne influenced his thoughts on urban planning and the challenges of housing affordability in Australia. Matt also reflects on his time at ANU, discussing the highs and lows, the impact of student leadership, and the value of his honors year. Tune in for a comprehensive look at how academic insights can shape real-world policies.

#35 - Kate Chipman (2022) speaks with Abi Rajkumar (2014) Listen to Kate hosting Abi on Tuckwell Talks! Abi shares her university highlights, including her Development Studies degree, unforgettable field schools in Vietnam and Malawi, and being part of the inaugural Tuckwell Scholarship cohort. Discover her experiences working in politics, legal internships, and the significant impact of studying at the Harvard Kennedy School. Now based in the Northern Territory, Abi talks about her current work and future aspirations, blending law, justice, and community service. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on making a difference, both professionally and personally.

Episode #34 - Jonno Shiel Dick (2021) speaks with Luke McNamara (2023). In this episode, our host Jonno Shiel-Dick chats with Luke McNamara, a third-year arts law student from Sydney. They delve into Luke's university experiences, his interest in history and philosophy, and the influence of their shared backgrounds (Jonno and Luke are from the same high school!). Luke shares his thoughts on the importance of service and giving back, reflecting on his volunteer work. The conversation also explores the intricacies of studying law, the impact of systemic advocacy, TikTok scrolling and promising future aspirations. Listen now!

In this episode, 2025 Scholar, Bartholomew Cheng sits down with Olivia Taifalos, a 2019 Scholar , to discuss her educational and professional journey. Olivia shares her experiences receiving the Tuckwell Scholarship, pursuing a bachelor of medical science, and her progression into studying medicine. They delve into Olivia's motivations for choosing a medical career, her overseas medical elective in Malta, and her passion for rural generalism. Olivia also talks about her research projects on genetics and Aboriginal health, her volunteering roles, teaching, share houses, words of wisdom from Professor Brian Schmidt, and the enriching experience of being involved in university societies. Join us for an insightful conversation reflecting on the highs, lows, and future aspirations of a dedicated medical student.

Join us as we delve into the academic and personal journey of Janee Emma, a 2021 Tuckwell Scholar in her final year at ANU, completing her Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Arts with a major in Criminology. Janee shares her experiences studying law, her unexpected interest in corporate and tax law, and her aspirations to enter the field of employment law. In this episode, she also recounts her upbringing in Queensland, her challenging yet fulfilling transition to living in Canberra, her exchange program in Canada, and her competitive baton twirling career. Janee reflects on her leadership roles at ANU, her internships, and the pivotal moments and lowlights through her university experience.

In this episode, Michelle sits down with Patrick O'Connor, a 2021 Scholar who shares his decision to switch from a medical pathway to astrophysics, and the inspiring mentors he encountered along the way. We also delve into his research on galaxy evolution and space medicine, the vibrant community at ANU, and his experiences as an outreach assistant at Mount Stromlo Observatory. Additionally, Patrick shares insights on running ultra-marathons and the importance of pursuing passions.

#30 - Michelle speaks with Finn McCredie (2021) Journey through law, languages, and personal growth with Finn McCredie. Delve into Finn's academic and personal journey, a 2021 Tuckwell Scholar pursuing a double degree in Law and Arts with a major in French and a minor in Economics. Finn shares his experiences, from his passion for public speaking and debating to his love for the French language and culture. He discusses the challenges and triumphs of his time at ANU, including his interests in antitrust law and his work on the duty of care in religious schools. Discover how Finn balances academic pursuits with hobbies like tennis and reading and learn about his plans for the future in this insightful and inspiring episode.

Farewell Dr. Fiona Scotney: Reflections from the Outgoing Tuckwell Scholarship Director Join Olivia Bunter (2020) on this special episode of Tuckwell Talks as she sits down with Dr. Fiona Scotney, the outgoing director of the Tuckwell Scholarship Program. Fiona reflects on her journey since joining the program in early 2022, her experiences and contributions, the wonderful network she has built, and the future of the Tuckwell community. They discuss her initial impressions, memorable moments, and the strategic initiatives she's proud of, including the 10-year celebrations of the scholarship. As she bids farewell, Fiona shares what's next in her career and her long-term ambitions, emphasising her passion for education and community building. Many thanks to Olivia Bunter (2020) for being this week's podcast host.

In this episode, Michelle speaks with Joe, a 2020 scholar in his final semester, majoring in economics and law. Joe shares insights into his thesis on sustainability reporting in Australia, focusing on the Modern Slavery Act and its global implications. They discuss his academic journey, including his involvement with bringing One for the World to ANU, and his time working in the Northern Territory and Singapore. Joe reflects on his best and worst experiences, the importance of person-to-person connections, his love for music and his aspirations post-graduation. Tune in to hear about Joe's fascinating journey so far.

#27 In this highly engaging podcast, Head of Scholars House, Michelle speaks with Nic Mayrhofer, a 2021 scholar studying politics, philosophy, economics, international relations, and Vietnamese. Nic is from the beautiful Blue Mountains and now calls Canberra home. Nic shares his motivations and experiences so far. They discuss his interest in public service fueled by a desire to benefit Australians and the community. He details his enriching ANIP internship with Senator David Shoebridge, where he researched changes in protest laws across Australia. Nic also talks about his involvement with Teach for Australia, his leadership roles at Wamburun Hall, and the challenges of balancing different cultural identities. They discuss job rejections, navigating uncertainties and a graduate position at Treasury! The discussion concludes with Nic's reflections on his comprehensive and rewarding ANU experience, emphasising the importance of community and self-discovery.

This week on Tuckwell Talks, we are delighted to have a guest host – 2021 scholar Chris Jackson. Chris speaks with 2015 Scholar, Lachlan Arthur. Lachlan is originally from country South Australia and last year completed his PhD at Oxford University on a Rhodes scholarship and returned to ANU to complete medicine. They discuss his passion for medicine and sports as well as dealing with nerves and burnout, defending his PhD at Oxford, mentors, important decisions made during study, the differences between college systems in Australia and the UK, maintaining friendships across continents, overseas start-up programs, the joys of ANU trademarks - IB and Div X runs, the tough grind of an honours year, rethinking life decisions whilst harvesting cells on Sunday evenings, and the importance of doing the things you really enjoy, having good support people around you and always having an abundance of ginger readily available at a dinner party!

Head of Scholars House, Associate Professor Michelle Barrett sits down with 2021 Scholar, Caitlin McManus Barrett. Caitlin is studying a PHB Science with a major in Physics, and minors in math's and Spanish in her honours year. They discuss Caitlin’s love for languages, quantum physics, entanglements, as well as her rowing pursuits which have taken her to different parts of the world, including to the world championships in Canada where she won a bronze medal! They also chat about her disability support work, overcoming injury, taking on challenges, embracing change and the importance of taking a step back in order to move forward as well as her exciting future plans including Olympic aspirations!

Dr Fiona Scotney speaks with Matthew Jacob, a 2014 Scholar and Alum. They discuss his Tuckwell journey, including internships at Parliament House, The Grattan Institute, The Reserve Bank, a summer program in China, his PhD at Harvard, intergenerational inequality research, teaching, life in the USA, the close knit 2014 cohort, burnout and life skills such as learning to say no.

In our first podcast for 2025, you will hear from the 4 Tuckwell Fellows. Head of Scholars House, Associate Professor Michelle Barrett sits down with Associate Professor Mark Ellison, Associate Professor Emma Aisbett, Dr Maryna Bilokur, & Dr Asilata Bapat. They discuss their career paths, covering topics such as working in foreign lands and discovering beautiful cities, work-life balance, experiencing burnout, the importance of taking breaks and mental health, magical Christmas moments, parking spaces for Nobel Laureates, renewable energy, economics, law, time management, setting boundaries, nuclear fusion, complex mathematical systems, braiding, music, working holidays, and learning new hobbies plus life hacks and some sage advice for scholars! Enjoy these four enlightening conversations with the Tuckwell Fellows.

In our final podcast episode for the year, we go back to where it began! When we launched our podcast in April, our Head of Scholars House sat down with 2021 Scholar Chris Jackson. Now we find Chris, on the other side of the mic!   Chris Jackson (2021) speaks with Head of Scholars House – Associate Professor Michelle Barrett. Michelle is originally from Adelaide and studied medicine under an ADF Scholarship, with 4 years of mandatory service, plus another 2 years which took her to Rwanda.   They discuss her GP practice, hiring and firing, the horrors of war, leadership roles, and her first meeting with Graham and Louise. They also reflect on her first year as Head of Scholars House, a memorable exchange to Scotland, and there is mention of an infamous soccer team with a great moniker!   Trigger warning: There is a brief, detailed discussion on war injuries.   Thank you for listening and stay tuned for new episodes in the new year!

This week, in our 21st podcast edition, Program Director Dr Fiona Scotney sits down with 2019 Scholar Charles (Charlie) O'Neill. Charlie is from Bathurst and is studying a Bachelor of Science (Hons) and a Bachelor of Economics, with a major in Applied Mathematics, Computer Science/Econometrics. They discuss pivots in areas of study, a summer in Boston for an exchange to Harvard university, co-founding Rake news, running and Murakami books, his upcoming PHD in Oxford for his recent John Monash Scholarship! They also discuss his interesting work in AI and language model research, and Charlie shares some sage advice for younger Tuckwell Scholars.

Head of Scholars House, Associate Professor Michelle Barrett sits down with Nina Gannon, who is about to finish her Bachelor of Laws with specialisation in law reform, environmental and social justice, and a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Human Rights. They discuss her time in Darwin working with the North Australian Aboriginal Justice Agency (NAAJA) in providing legal aid services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.   They also discuss her passion for hockey and her involvement with the ANU Women’s hockey club, her experience as the sports officer at Wright Hall, her exchange to the University of Manchester, prison systems and visits, retina scans, and her recent visit to central Australia.

Program Director, Dr Fiona Scotney sits down with 2021 Alumni and current Scholar, Stephanie Lunn. Stephanie graduated with a Bachelor of Science and is now studying a Doctor of Medicine (MChD) at ANU. They discuss her 2nd year trip to France for the French + Sciences Program, and her time with a local French family during her visit. They also chat about her love for the outdoors, training for the infamous Inward Bound, hiking local trails, playing piano for Bruce Hall commencement, undergraduate research and also the pressures of making decisions and weighing up options at the end of undergraduate studies.

This week, Program Director, Dr Fiona Scotney sits down with 2020 Scholar Olivia Bunter. Olivia is studying a Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) and a Bachelor of Economics. They discuss group project dynamics, her mechanical engineering internship, public service work in the critical technology space, and how behavioural economics can be used in energy policy! They also chat about how growing up in lots of different places inspired Olivia's love for the outdoors including camping, fishing and snowboarding, and her future plans for road tripping around Australia and one day building a house DIY.

Head of Scholars House, Associate Professor Michelle Barrett sits down with 2022 Scholar Milla Papallo. Milla is studying a Bachelor of Science and is also a star netball player! They discuss how she balances her training with her study, tournaments, travel, collaborative coaches, her interests in the fields of neuroscience and anatomy, as well as Scholars House friendships, her plans for the future and keeping an open mind to unplanned opportunities. *Warning for the squeamish – they do briefly discuss a confronting anatomy lab with cadavers.

Program Director Dr Fiona Scotney sits down with Ella Wishart, a 2021 Scholar studying Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Environment and Sustainability and majoring in Evolution, Ecology, Organismal biology quantitative environmental modelling. They discuss her time on ABC radio and her volunteer work with the ANU Intrepid Landcare society, of which she has been secretary for 2 years. Ella has been making a positive impact on the local environment through land management, planting trees, going out to properties to help with wildlife surveys, building fences and much more to help protect and change things for the future. They also discuss her involvement in The Fenner School society, field studies in the Daintree and Kosciuszko, monitoring Eastern Quolls in Mulligans Flat, paleoecology, volunteering making breakfast at the EMC, playing cricket, and Monty Python skit reenactments!

Program Director, Dr Fiona Scotney speaks with 2020 Scholar Lachlan Anderson. Lachlan is studying a Bachelor of Science, in his advanced honours year. Hear about his degree changes, rare earth elements, solo travels to Eastern European battlefields, mining jobs, extensive geology knowledge, his home brewing prowess, adventures with metal detectors and a very special mention - Eric the slightly healthy, cheese loving, share house cat!

Ellie is from Toowoomba, Qld, in her 3rd year of medicine and is currently in her placement year in Goulburn. Listen to Ellie's journey so far including her passion for running, Inward Bound adventures, her varied roles at university, including being a lollypop lady & an RA for her residential hall during Covid, and the importance of life outside of medicine.

Program Director, Dr Fiona Scotney sits down with 2021 Scholar, Oscar Pearce, who is studying Law and PPE. They discuss his recent travels including an exchange in Berlin and his work with an NGO in Jakarta. Oscar also shares his experiences learning new languages, mooting in Washington, his time in an all Tuckwell share house, his legacy as the founder of the famed Tuckwell soccer team and also his interesting work with Ammonia Energy Association and the challenges of finding balance and managing trade-offs at university. Oscar will soon travel to Istanbul for a Humanitarian Law short course.

Head of Scholars House, Associate Professor Michelle Barrett, speaks with 2020 Scholar, Hannah Price. Hannah is studying a Bachelor of Law and PPE, specialising in law reform, environmental and social justice. They discuss her love for running and skiing, as well as her interests in indigenous justice and her memorable experiences with Inward Bound.

Episode 11 Program Director, Dr Fiona Scotney speaks with 2022 Scholar, Harry Bowden. Harry is studying a Bachelor of Engineering in Research and Development and a Bachelor of Science, majoring in Chemistry. They discuss his interesting Danish connection and exchange as well as his love for the ocean and particularly cold-water swimming! Harry additionally shares highlights from his weekly reading to primary school children, first year character building and giving back.

Recent ANU Tuckwell graduate and university medalist, Jasmine Pearson (2020) speaks with our Head of Scholars House Associate Professor Michelle Barrett. They discuss Jasmine's important work in public health, specifically drug testing as well as her research project in youth suicide prevention. Jasmine has recently helped run a mental health hackathon and also shares the joys of rowdy share houses and memories of sewing face masks as well as cold falafel kebabs during Covid Lockdown.

In this episode, Associate Professor Michelle Barrett talks to 2020 Tuckwell Scholar, Marissa Ellis. Marissa graduated in 2023 with a Bachelor of Philosophy – Science (Honours) degree from ANU and is now in her first year of the Doctor of Medicine and Surgery program. They discuss acclimatising to Canberra’s seasons, her Honours work with Clear Vision Research in retinal degenerative disease, as well as the highs and lows of her time as a Tuckwell Scholar.

Welcome back to semester 2, 2024. In this week's episode, Head of Scholars House Associate Professor Michelle Barrett sits down with graduating 2021 Scholar, Brian Lee. They discuss success, failure, and learning not to be a perfect human.

In this episode of Tuckwell Talks: Conversations with Scholars, Associate Professor Michelle Barrett talks to 2020 Tuckwell Scholar, Isaac Martin. They discuss solar racing, renewal energy, hydrogen cars and his experience working with ANU Vice Chancellor, Distinguished Professor Genevieve Bell.

In this episode, Associate Professor Michelle Barrett sits down with 2021 Scholar Mariane Johnstone. Mariane is studying Bachelor of Environment and Sustainability and a Bachelor of International Relations and recently returned from a semester-long Global Programs placement in Versailles. She is an ANU College of Arts and Social Sciences ambassador and project assistant at the ANU Agrifood Innovation Institute.

In this week's episode of Tuckwell Talks, Associate Professor Michelle Barrett speaks with Sebastian Viner, a 2021 Tuckwell Scholar studying Bachelor of Environment & Sustainability, and a Bachelor of Science, ANU Research School of Earth Sciences, ANU College of Science. In the podcast, he speaks about some of his field trips, and the highs and lows of undertaking study during COVID lockdowns. Seb is a keen yachter, and sailed in the 2023 Sydney to Hobart Yacht race, and also teaches sailing at the Canberra Yacht Club.

In this episode, Associate Professor Michelle Barrett, Head of Scholars House, sits down with Guy Archibald, a 2022 Tuckwell scholar from Perth studying a Bachelor of Science. Guy is a volunteer for St John Ambulance ACT, and has used his first aide training many times, notably as a first responder to a car accident and for a broken ankle at a recent Tuckwell soccer match. He is a regular volunteer on the Night Crew, where armed with a lollies, water and first aid equipment Guy patrols Civic overnight and provides first aid or assist with sobering up.

In this episode, the Director of the Tuckwell Scholarship Program, Dr Fiona Scotney, sits down with graduating Scholar, Samantha Barton. Sam is a is studying a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science (Psychology). She went on exchange in Semester One of 2023 to the University of Exeter. While on exchange, Sam made an effort to connect with her ancestral roots, visiting ruined homes and cemeteries across the Europe. She is a self-proclaimed expert on university's residential colleges, having lived in four of them... so far.

This episode Head of Scholars House, Dr Michelle Barrett interviews 2021 Tuckwell Scholar, Jacob Gome. Jacob is a fourth year ANU Bachelor of Philosophy-Science (Hons) student from Warrnambool in Victoria. He is majoring in Chemistry and currently undertaking his honours with the Preston Group at the Research School of Chemistry. In 2023, he spent 12 weeks at EPFL in Lausanne, Switzerland and where there watched a stage of the Tour de France form the top of an alpine pass.  He also ran the Marathon du Mont Blanc in Chamonix, as well as some sections of the world-famous Trail du Mont Blanc.

Head of Scholars House, Dr Michelle Barrett speaks with 2021 Tuckwell Scholar, Chris Jackson. Chris is completing a double degree at ANU, and majoring in renewable energy systems and finance. In this episode, they discuss Chris' recent exchange to Zurich, and some of his research and volunteer work.

The Tuckwell Talks Podcast features Scholars from The Australian National University, Tuckwell Scholarship Program. Hosted by Dr Michelle Barrett, the Head of Scholars House, the podcast features interviews with inspiring Scholars from across all disciplines, including Law, Science, Medicine, and Engineering. Host Dr Michelle Barrett Producer Dr Fiona Scotney Music from Adobe Stock Recorded at The Australian National University on Ngunnawal (Ngunawal) and Ngambri lands