Four Grade 10 students, Amos, Christian, Angus and Jordan, were given the opportunity to spend three days at The University of Tasmania, this is their story.

“The Science Experience was designed to provide students who are passionate about science with the opportunity to enhance their understanding about science based career pathways that are offered at UTAS upon completion of college. Over the three days of the experience, we were caught up in a whirlwind of chemical, biological, zoological, agricultural, physiological, and technological sciences. Actively participating in a broad range of interaction-based activities, we got the chance to experiment with fire chemistry, chemical chemistry, making chips with an air fryer, a case study in the med lab, slip & slide in the gym, pinning bees to a block of foam, and looking at boats. Through our adventure we were exposed to possible science-based pathways and occupations, including tasting wine and cheese for… science? A favourite part of the experience was when we entered the future through the exploration of augmented and virtual reality. This opportunity was one that not everyone gets to experience often, maybe ever.

As well as being fun, there was a lot to learn from this experience. Most of the people who ran the programs and lessons had interesting stories to tell about their life from Grade 10 onwards, including going to Uni. Some didn’t even achieve much in school; they just had an interest or passion for science. Some stayed and did Uni for years. We weren’t the only ones there, over 50 students from many northern Tasmanian public and private schools from grade 9-10 participated. Everyone was passionate about science, and it was great being with like-minded peers. The Science Experience certainly did not lack science, it covered quite a broad range from agriculture to nursing and some chemistry in between. It is definitely worth doing, especially if you think science is just about blowing things up.”

What an amazing opportunity from UTAS. If you have a passion for science and are interested in related careers, speak to your science teacher about participating in the UTAS Science Experience 2023!