Turning Down $80K in Scholarships to Study Actuarial Science at Curtin

What would make you turn down $80,000 in scholarships? For Arlene Janse van Rensburg, it came down to long-term thinking, personal values, and a university that offered more than just prestige. In this episode, Rob chats with Arlene about why she chose actuarial science at Curtin University over better-funded alternatives - and how that decision opened doors she never expected.

From scoring four internships in four different industries to leading student clubs and studying abroad in Thailand, Arlene has crafted a uni journey that’s anything but ordinary. She breaks down what actuarial science actually is, what kind of student it suits, and what studying it really looks like. You’ll also hear practical tips on finding internships, building a killer LinkedIn profile, and making choices that align with your values - not just expectations.

If you’re looking for inspiration, clarity, and a reminder that there’s no one “right” way to do uni - this episode is for you.

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