Sylvania Marchellina Suhartono

"I used to work as a Field Engineer for Schlumberger, a Cementing Technical Engineer for Total E&P, Chevron Pacific Indonesia and Pertamina. I was assigned to Malaysia for over two years before moving back to my home country, Indonesia. I was working in the field on and off-shore 24/7, managing clients and supervising people. Being the only girl on the rig was not a big deal for me!

"One of the biggest decisions in my life was deciding whether I should pursue a higher degree or stay in my comfort zone. Continuing into a masters degree was the right one in spite of the challenges, as I realise that I still have contributions to make to my field.

"I realise that fossil energies are going to run out soon, followed by the decrease of oil stock worldwide. Studies in renewable energy are amongst the most necessary topics in the world. I’m being taught by expert lecturers and recognised renewable energy practitioners, and my knowledge will benefit my country, especially since there is currently a lack of experts in Geothermal Energy Technology there."