School students explore the wonders of studying science and engineering

More than 100 Year 9 and 10 school students across the State participated in The Science Experience event this month at The University of Western Australia, where they learnt about the fascinating world of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) and the varied career opportunities in the field.

Students met UWA scientists, learnt about their research and saw science in action. Activities included demonstrations of virtual reality exploring the multi-wavelength sky, understanding how the human heart works, why water and soil sustainability is important for our future and how scientists clone genes using DNA.

"I think engineering is really important for our future and it’s been fun to learn how it can be applied to solve problems.”

Tara Kearing

Tara Kearing from Hedland Senior High School who attended the event said she had enjoyed learning about the opportunities available at university in the field of STEM.

“I’m interested in engineering and I’d consider a future career in robotics where you get to build, design and use technology,” she said.

“I’m really grateful for the opportunity to travel to Perth from Port Hedland. I think engineering is really important for our future and it’s been fun to learn how it can be applied to solve problems.”

High school students Tara Kearing, Maddison Phillips and Elizabeth Coakley from Port Hedland visit EZONE, a world-class learning space at UWA for engineering and mathematical science students.

Kirsty Brooks, event organiser, from the UWA Faculty of Science, said The Science Experience provided school students with the opportunity to engage with and explore a large variety of STEM offerings.

“STEM is at the heart of many of today’s global challenges, such as climate change, human health, agriculture practices, and wastage and consumption,” she said.

“In Australia, 75% of the fastest growing jobs require STEM skills, so it’s a really important field that is highly sought after by employers.

“The Science Experience at UWA focuses on helping students better understand their university options. We hope to achieve this by translating their passions into finding the right degree to help with a future career pathway.

“This event engages with students in the Perth metropolitan area, but also students in regional areas that are separated by distance and may not otherwise get exposure to visiting a university campus and learning about the opportunities available to them.”

UWA awarded 39 spots to students who excel in STEM from equity partner schools and flew three female students down from Port Hedland to participate in the event.