Women in STEM Careers: Spotlight on Marceline Overduin

What is your name? 
Marceline Overduin

What are you studying? 
I am in the final year of my studies for a Bachelors degree of Mechanical Engineering (Honours).

What is your background? 
I was born in the Netherlands, and immigrated to Australia with my family when I was 8 years old.

Why did you decide to study your degree?
I have an affinity for maths and physics, understanding how and why things work (or don’t work!). I am also passionate about the use engineering and technology to help create human centred designs and solutions. There is a deep level of satisfaction in bridging the gap between ideas and reality using what is available.

Was there someone that inspired you to study?
My dad. He is also a mechanical engineer and enjoys his work. I feel inspired his values and how he applies them in the workplace.

What are you looking for in a dream job?
A dream job would be engaging, challenging, and educational. I want to be pushed to learn about the various technical aspects and grow as a person in both a personal and professional capacity. This type of growth typically comes from being challenged and pushed to think creatively and consider a range of perspectives.

What is a day in the life like for you?
My days are usually a bit varied. I get up around 5am (cheers body clock…), before watching the news while sipping on a cup of coffee. The rest of the day is filled with a combination of study, reading, an hour long walk, and a constant stream of messaging with friends and family both near and far.

How have things changed for you since COVID-19?
Covid has given me a lot more time and freedom. I’ve been able to work at times in the morning that work best for me (that might be considered ungodly hours to others), go for walks when I want, and read to my hearts content. The pandemic has helped me realise that maintaining friendships can be done from a distance, and has made me appreciate the value of catching up in person even more.

What do you hope to get out of the WiSC Program?
I hope to form friendships that will last the test of time. I also want to continue learning more about how to get the best out of myself, and how to encourage others to do the same. Feeling supported and accepted in a community of strong, intelligent, and articulate women is already proving to be a highlight.

What is the one thing you’ve most enjoyed so far about the WiSC Program?
Feeling supported and accepted in a community of strong, intelligent, and articulate women is already proving to be a highlight. Meeting, and connecting with, such a wonderful diverse group has been really enjoyable.

What’s one thing that most people in the program wouldn’t know about you?
I’ve lived in 3 different countries.

Have you picked up a hobby in COVID-19 or started doing something new?
I’ve happily dived into grandma mode and started crocheting. I’m working on connecting pieces of knitting to form a blanket. Really enjoying the slow and steady nature of it and being able to see the blanket gradually come together.

What would you say to your younger self?
Enjoy the present and stay open to change.

Do you have a quote you live by?
“Don't let the fear of the time it will take to accomplish something stand in the way of your doing it. The time will pass anyway; we might just as well put that passing time to the best possible use.” – Earl Nightingale

Inspirational people?
Not sure if this is fitting… but my mum. Her love, kindness, wisdom, and patience continually inspire me to strive to the best person I can be.