Over summer, two budding Meriden scientists were privileged to receive invitations to exclusive Science enrichment programs in Canberra.
Following her outstanding result in the Earth and Environmental Science Olympiad exam, Year 12 student Emily Chen was invited to attend the Earth and Environmental Science Summer School at Canberra’s Australian National University (ANU) in January. This is the second time Emily has been chosen to attend the summer school.
Emily had the opportunity to study geology, astronomy and climatology, and engage in hands-on investigations into Australian Science Innovations’ mineral, rock and fossil collections. She also built a LEGO seismometer and simulated fluid dynamics, enhancing her practical understanding of these concepts.
“We heard lectures by Summer School mentors and experts, and had the chance to see some of the labs at ANU, including a fluid lab where researchers modelled the influence of ocean water dynamics on climate.
“We also had the opportunity to gain experience in real-life assignments through our field day and Team Field Investigation presentations, where we presented on an assigned Federation Rock from the National Rock Garden.
“Overall, it was an engaging and challenging experience that helped me grow as a leader and a team player and left me with many connections and friendships I would not have gained otherwise.”
Meanwhile, Year 12 student Laura Croxon was chosen to attend the National Youth Science Forum (NYSF), which aims to inspire young Australians engaging in science and technology futures. Like Emily, Laura’s experience was also at ANU in Canberra.
“The National Youth Science Forum was an incredible opportunity that exposed and introduced me to branches of STEM I was unfamiliar with, such as biomedicine, Indigenous genomics and astrophysics,” Laura said.
“I thoroughly enjoyed hearing from professionals in a range of STEM fields and meeting other students with similar interests. The professionals we met were generous with their time and patient in sharing their experiences and knowledge.
“The careers day was a fantastic opportunity to ask questions and explore tertiary fields in STEM, helping me to identify areas of interest for my studies next year. I returned home from NYSF with a clearer sense of direction, a fantastic group of new friends from across Australia, and the motivation to take on Year 12 and the exciting year ahead!”
Congratulations to both students on their selection and participation in such incredible enrichment opportunities.
