2024 National Youth Science Forum
Over the summer holidays Maddie Judd, Matthew Hanns and Keegan Hawking had the opportunity to attend the National Youth Science Forum (NYSF). This ran in two sessions with Matthew and Keegan attending the Australian National University in Canberra, and Maddie attending The University of Queensland in Brisbane.
NYSF is a program designed for Year 12 students to give a broader understanding of the diverse study and career options available in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and to encourage continued studies in these fields.
Maddie, Matthew and Keegan stayed at university colleges and were immersed in science and technology. They were able to participate in tours of facilities; learn about cutting edge research; engage with industry partners and research providers; learn about university, training and STEM career pathways; and network and socialise with like-minded students.
Matthew’s highlight was the Careers Day at held at the Hadron Collider and the presentation by the scientists. He also enjoyed the STEM visits and meeting like-minded students.
Keegan was initially hesitant about NYSF, however on reflection he says ‘NYSF was the greatest experience I could have asked for’. Keegan gained a greater understanding about working in many fields of science. The careers day provided insight and changed his ideas about his future pathway. Keegan now aspires to do a PhD in Biochemistry – cancer-based research.
Maddie enjoyed the opportunity to speak with professionals in their respective science fields; from science communications to physicists working at CERN just outside Geneva Switzerland, cybersecurity professionals and PHD students. Her most memorable conversation was with microbiologist Gino Micalizzi who works for the Queensland Public and Environmental Health laboratories. He explained how they use genetic profiling and characteristics of bacteria to determine where outbreaks are derived from as well as going into detail about the types of methods used to determine the strain and the level of antibiotic resistance the bacteria have. From this invaluable experience Maddie hopes to attend university to pursue a Bachelor of Science, further exploring her curiosity for science.
Maddie and Matthew extend their thanks to the Shepparton Rotary Club for supporting their applications and making this opportunity a reality.
All three students highly encourage any current Year 11 student who is considering a future career in science to consider applying for the National Youth Science Forum in 2025.
“If you are entering Year 12 in 2025 and have a curiosity for the innerworkings of the world around us I highly encourage reading up on NYSF socials and looking into the program as you have nothing to lose and a world of knowledge to gain.” Maddie Judd said.
