Alumnus Success: Charlie, Scotland

26 Mar 2021

From Britain to Queensland, Australia, Charlie Troughton studied History at The University of Queensland (2010-11) as part of an international student exchange with Edinburgh University (Scotland).

What are you doing now in your career?

I run a renewable energy development firm focused on sub-Saharan Africa. I have always had an interest in renewable energy and deploying it in developing economies.

How did you end up studying in Queensland?

I had an old friend (who grew up on the Gold Coast) who was studying at UQ at the same time who encouraged me to consider studying in Queensland as part of the student exchange Edinburgh University offered. I had travelled in Australia before and enjoyed the lifestyle and found the people friendly.

What was the highlight of your experience living in Queensland?

Meeting an interesting bunch of Australian and international students. Having an opportunity to study areas of history not offered at Edinburgh University (notably Chinese and Australian history).

How has your experience in Queensland helped you with your career? 

It helped build the confidence needed to consider and execute establishing a business with an international focus. It provided me with a useful network (my housemate in Brisbane ended up helping me set up my business.)

What career-advice would you give to give future students thinking about studying in Queensland? 

Don’t think too hard about your career - consider subjects and degrees you are interested in rather than what you think will benefit your career.

I’d encourage arts students to consider business careers and, indeed, those interested in business and finance not to consider degrees in commerce, business and finance as being the pre-requisites to a successful career.

There are some fascinating courses taught by interesting and intelligent people which don't seem as subscribed to as other more vocational courses (UQ Associate Professor Andrew Bonnell's history courses were always fascinating and thought provoking).

What's the easiest way to develop a social-life in Queensland? 

Consider living in a college rather than off-campus and try and meet both Australian and international students.

You can follow Charlie's journey on LinkedIn here. 

Posted by: Study Queensland