A thirst for knowledge and a passion for science resulted in Year 12 student Clare Bradley of St Norbert College being selected to attend the London International Youth Science Forum for 2013.
Clare was an active, effective participant at the National Youth Science Forum (NYSF): a 12-day residential program run in both Canberra and Perth in January this year. To be selected for the NYSF, Clare competed for one of 432 places with 2,000 other applicants from all parts of the country, all top science students at their schools.
At the January Forum, Clare demonstrated exceptional levels of interest, capacity and potential in fields of science, and also strong interpersonal, teamwork, inquiry, communication and potential leadership skills.
Clare then sought, and has been selected, to represent Australian youth science at this prestigious international event.
“A chance to attend LIYSF is incredible,” an excited Clare said. “Before I attended the NYSF, which opened so many new perspectives and options for me, I could not have dreamed of being a part of this amazing opportunity.”
“In the next couple of years, I will be making some career-shaping decisions, so to have the chance to experience cutting-edge science at an international level is a fantastic springboard into the future.”
The time in London will provide a real understanding of science in action on a global scale. Participants have a unique opportunity, not only to network with peers and leading scientists from all over the world, but also to travel and build intercultural awareness.
“Most top scientists I have met are well-travelled, with a firsthand appreciation of different cultures,” says NYSF Director, Geoff Burchfield.
“Travel seems to enrich people’s lives profoundly, and to give them an edge professionally.”
Before jetting off, Clare must take on the difficult task of fundraising $10,000 to cover costs.
Any sponsorship or donations from local business and Rotary Clubs would be deeply appreciated by Clare and her family, a representative from St Norbert’s told The Record, adding that the opportunity had inspired Clare toward future university success.