Ursula Frayne Catholic College students Tyanna Orlando and Kate Pearson began year 12 with a once in a life-time opportunity to explore the myriad of options in science for study after school.

The pair attended the National Youth Science Forum at the University of Queensland in their summer holidays and have recounted their experience below: 

We were lucky enough to be selected alongside 200 other young Australians to attend the University of Queensland (UQ) for the 37th National Youth Science Forum (NYSF) during the summer holidays. NYSF is a program for like-minded students entering into Year 12 who have a passion for STEM and offers an opportunity to explore the various pathways that STEM has to offer at university and in the workplace.  

Over the 10-day program, we visited many university branches and industries. One of these was the Centre for Advanced Imaging at UQ, where we were given the opportunity to use various machinery like PET-CT scanners. We also visited the forensics branch of Griffith University and participated in a crime scene simulation. We also had the chance to listen to engaging lectures about topics including drones, neuroscience, science communication and critical thinking from presenters such as [representatives from] the Australian Defence Force, Dr. Laura Fenlon and many other distinguished presenters.  

A highlight of the event was the science disco and the chance to form connections with other participants from across the country.  Another social aspect was the science dinner at the Brisbane Town Hall, where we were able to formally interact with science and industry professionals. NYSF was heaps of fun and a fantastic opportunity to explore the STEM opportunities available to us in the future and helped us to solidify our next step after high school. 

By Tyana Orlando and Kate Pearson

Share this article.