Aiya Kondo and Liam Campbell have been studying STEM subjects at WHS . Their diligence and work ethic led to their being chosen for the two week Rotary National Science and Technology live-in Forum in Auckland. In January, along with 168 students from around the country, they stayed in University dormitories and experienced study in STEM through lectures, workshops and field trips. During the modules, Aiya and Liam were able to talk to current university students.
Seeing the projects that these students were working on strengthened Liam’s interest in engineering. “Not only did the forum show me pathways that I had never considered before, it allowed me to start thinking about which aspects interested me most.” For Aiya, Dr Michelle Dickinson was a very memorable and inspiring speaker, challenging the traditional mindset around STEM and providing a unique insight into the academic world. “I entered the Forum expecting to learn practical skills in STEM subjects. What I didn’t expect was to learn so many valuable life lessons which I will carry with me forever. “
Both students gave an excellent presentation to the Waiheke Rotary Club along with the principal, Mr Cameron Flude, and their supporting teacher HOF Science Katherine Cole.