On January 12th I had the privilege to join 167 students from across the country to attend the 30th National Rotary Science and Technology forum held in Auckland.

The two-week experience was a sneak peak into science and technology for students entering their final year of secondary studies. This showed students their capabilities and potential future endeavours in their tertiary studies. During the two weeks we stayed in O’Rorke hall, this is where we had our meals, meetings and much-needed relaxation time between each module. We began with the meeting and mingling with like minded peers, making those connections and becoming familiar with this group as we transitioned into a busy week. After the formal opening ceremony with district coordinators and BOT members, we were lucky enough to have Dr Deborah Lambie as our keynote speaker. The doctor, international model and co-founder of learn coach explained to us the importance of not only exceeding societal expectations but also breaking those stereotypes that “dream stealers” had already predetermined for you. 

With that inspirational talk we were ready to start the week with an open mind. Modules were held at the Massey, AUT or University of Auckland. From robotics, CAD printing to biomedical sciences and psychology. Each module was 3 hours, which was filled with practical’s, theory and talks from students of each faculty. One of my favourite modules was biomedical engineering. We were lucky enough to have a few lectures and PhD students from the biomedical engineering department to speak to us. We had a rotation of different practical’s and demonstrations such as seeing the different effects of a computerised heart when it goes through an ECG, the use of the technology from stretch sense and testing the amino acids in different kiwifruit consistencies. The PhD students also showed us their different projects, such as the needleless injections, heart pumps and the use of LEDs to stimulate the brain in stroke patients.    

Although we were very busy with attending lectures and modules we were still able to have a volleyball competition between each colour, a talent show and elite choir to showcase the other talents our peers had. To keep up our fitness and health up during the two weeks we had early morning fitness which consisted of walking, running, aerobics and more volleyball. During the weekends we were able to do some exploring in Auckland and have a beach day and long bay. To end off the two weeks we had a final formal forum dinner at the crown plaza. Rotarians, lectures and any of the wonderful volunteers that contributed to our experience all attended. This was a chance to show our appreciation and say our goodbyes to the family we had created.

This network of people is now intertwined in the rotary alumni and I can surely say we have all found life long friends. Therefore, I encourage anyone interested in science or technology to apply in year 12 and give it your best effort. Also, I would like to give a huge thanks to the members of the garden city rotary club, Mrs Thatcher, Mr Aaron and Ms Hooper for taking time out of their busy schedules to guide and support me before and after the forum.