Student falls for Goldfields life
Japanese student Ayako Kusui knew next to nothing about mining before she came to Kalgoorlie-Boulder in January, but now she wants to stay here.
The 25-year-old is researching underground support systems and rock mechanics under Professor Ernesto Villaescusa at the WA School of Mines.
She is looking at ways to make underground mining more resistant to rock deformation.
Originally a civil engineering student from Toyama, Ms Kusui said she hoped to work on an underground gold mine once she finished her studies.
“Before coming here, I had no idea about mining, but now I realise there are a lot of opportunities,” she said.
“I want to go into the mining industry. I want to stay here."
