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A group of 14 female students from Years 8 to 11 participated in the “Young Women in STEM” outreach program organised by Adelaide University on Thursday 4 June at the College.

The Adelaide University’s annual Young Women in STEM celebrates diversity across engineering, computer and mathematical sciences and introduces female students in secondary schools to technology-related career paths. The program engages students with world-class researchers, university student ambassadors and like-minded peers and provides them with opportunities to utilise problem-solving and creativity skills to collaboratively find solutions to a range of practical problems.

This year the program was offered to schools in the state in an online format through Zoom.

The first session introduced students to courses at the School of Architecture and Built Environment. They then used templates provided by the university and were guided to make a flat pack stool and a paper building. This activity was thoroughly enjoyed by the girls.

Students learnt about Mechanical Engineering courses at the university and were guided to make a lift platform. This required much more collaboration and problem solving. All groups successfully completed their lifts.

The final session of the day was a Q&A session where students had the opportunity to ask questions and hear from current female university students about their courses and life on campus.

In her reflection about the program one of the participants wrote, “The panel of speakers provided useful advice to always pursue your interests regardless of other’s opinions and interests. I would recommend participating in this course to others that are interested in learning more about STEM careers or who wish to pursue a career in the STEM field.”

I acknowledge the commitment to learning and enthusiasm of the students for choosing to come to school on a pupil free day to participate in this program. It was wonderful to observe their engagement and collaboration on the day. They were great ambassadors for the College. We are grateful to Adelaide University for providing the opportunity, expertise and resources for this program.

Pictured above Anushka Kumar, Ashleigh Spicer and Pajvi Purswani

Hoveida Saberi | 8-12 Maths and Science Teacher