Grace Dong

I had the honour of attending the 34th Rotary National Science and Technology Forum, where the two weeks spent in Auckland were truly an insightful and unforgettable experience, allowing all 168 students to fully explore the expansive realms of Science and Technology.

Following our warm welcome upon arrival, we were introduced to our colour groups where I was put in Red Team. Our second day started with an opening ceremony consisting of introductions and welcomes from Rotarians and Michelle Dickinson of Nanogirl, who taught us the importance of pursuing your passion. We were then presented with Dragon’s Den, and it was through the teamwork and leadership of many, that I realised how intelligent and full of potential every one of us is, and with the humour and dedication that carried us until the end, Red Group ultimately won the challenge.

For the rest of the two weeks, our 6:30 am mornings started with an early morning activity of your choice from running, gym, and volleyball, to walking and mindfulness. Given the busy schedule, walking around the city was my preferred option, this also provided an opportunity to make other friends from the different colour groups. The rest of the day would be packed with modules at universities and activities including quiz night, debating, talent quest, and your chosen tech visits, where I went to ESR Forensics, Auckland Medical School, and Soul Machines. The fast-paced nature of the days allowed us to be switched on and focused during the day, however, our energy was never low when it came to volleyball - highly competitive and passionate, our team chants and cheering were what truly carried the spirit of our matches, leading Red to all 4 wins and claiming ultimate victory.

Finishing off with a formal dinner, it was truly bittersweet, from our last bus song ride filled with tears, to our sad song jams as everyone pulled an all-nighter despite their early departures. I can wholeheartedly say that from the two weeks spent with like-minded others, the Rotary forum has successfully educated us in knowledge beyond high school, clarified our decisions for future paths, taught us life lessons, and brought everyone together to make lifelong friendships and memories that I will treasure forever.

Many thanks.

Lara Alsharif

Where do I even start?

This two-week science forum journey has been like catching lightning in a bottle. Not only did it blow my mind with new career possibilities, but it also gifted me with solid friendships and memories that felt like they had been decades in the making.

Throughout the forum, we delved into various academic modules such as Sports Science, Food tech, Bio-engineering, and more. While there was undoubtedly an academic focus, there was a stronger emphasis on fun and enjoyment.

We were exposed to numerous enjoyable activities and events, among which the beach day and Auckland Explore Day stood out as my silver lining. We ventured around Auckland, with my group visiting Kelly Tarlton’s and the Botanics to name a few. Dragons’ Den, a Shark tank-like presentation is another example. I was in the colour group purple which gained a commendable second place in the competition with our idea of unifying transport cards around Aotearoa.

Moreover, my discipline got a serious workout with those early morning activities every weekday. My running group decided to hit a 5km track, and we kicked off earlier than usual, at 6 am to catch that stunning sunrise. Yeah, dragging myself out of bed early was a struggle, but boy, running with the sunrise was pure magic, and the breathtaking views we captured on camera made every ounce of effort worth it.

Although I got COVID during the second week, it did allow me to fully experience every aspect of the forum. All 37 of us that had COVID were put on one floor…Talk about a bonding experience! From impromptu water gun battles to makeshift bowling with water bottles, late-night horror movies and endless Uber Eats it was truly a memorable time. Certainly not how I envisioned spending my time with COVID, but I wouldn't trade those moments for anything.

All in all, to make this opportunity possible, Grace and I would like to thank The Rotary Club of Dunedin for their generous funding, as well as the OGHS School Council and PTSA. The two-week ‘nerd camp’ certainly went above and beyond in all academic and social aspects, and we genuinely encourage all Year 12 STEM students to apply for this unforgettable opportunity.

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