THREE Loxton High School students have been supported by a government program to pursue their passion for science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
Tahlia Arnold, Hayley Inglis and Jorgia Maczkowiack participated in Curious Minds – a six-month program involving two camps and a coaching program that brought together more than 60 female students nationwide.
Member for Barker Tony Pasin said the program provided an opportunity for high-potential year 9 and 10 students nationwide to explore their interests and build confidence in STEM subjects.
“Because of COVID-19, the program ended up being entirely online this year, so the students completed experiments safely at home, took part in online social challenges and games as well as coaching sessions with inspiring female mentors who shared their passion for STEM,” he said.
“I want to congratulate the girls and encourage others with similar dreams to get involved.
“Employers are signalling an increasing demand for STEM skills, which is why our Government is encouraging young people’s interest in these fields of study.”
The year 11 girls, who started the program late last year as year 10 students, described the program as “amazing”.
Jorgia, who is hoping to study medicine at university, said the program opened up a “wide-range of opportunities” for her.
“The program was a real eye-opener and I got to learn things I haven’t learnt before,” she said.
“I was able to network with amazing people and I also managed to get help with my research project for school.
“It encouraged me to definitely take on a career in STEM.”
Hayley, who also hopes to study medicine, said the skills learnt will help her with her future subjects.
“I already know what subjects I want to study in year 12 and thanks to the program it’ll give me a kick-start,” she said.
“The one thing I got to learn that I enjoyed was how to read research papers and find information through journalist articles.
“That skill will help me throughout university.”
Tahlia, who hopes to study teaching, said although she learnt a lot, the social aspect was a highlight.
“We were able to network with women in STEM fields and we formed lots of great friendships,” she said.
“Everyone was really encouraging and helpful.”
The Australian Government is providing $2.35 million to continue to operate and expand the Curious Minds program over four years from 2020 to 2021.
For more information on the program, visit https://www.asi.edu.au/programs/curious-minds/.