Chloe Jones, Year 11, along with Asha, Jess and Lily recently attended the University of Queensland Biology Winter School. Chloe provides her reflection regarding her experience in understanding tertiary education options and career pathways for students interested in Biology.
On 5-6 July, myself, and other Year 11 QACI science students participated in the Queensland Biology Winter School. This program is run by the University of Queensland (UQ) and aimed to provide students with an insight into different tertiary education options and career pathways regarding biology.
The school was originally going to be held onsite at UQ's St Lucia campus however coronavirus lockdowns and restrictions forced the event to take place online. While this was different than expected, we were still able to interact with other participants and the UQ science leaders, who ensured the program remained highly engaging.
Over the two days we explored topics such as genetics, plant science, quantitative biology, evolutionary biology and phylogenetics. Lectures with respected academics including Professor Ian Godwin, provided real world applications for these topics such as the contemporary use of CRISPR technology to genetically adapt future diseases and increase immunity. Additionally, we were able to develop many advanced scientific skills by learning how to extract DNA, utilise BLAST technologies and interpret Gel Electrophoresis results. The program was also concluded by a career guidance session with Dr Gurion Ang, which allowed us to see the range of future opportunities and degrees accessible at UQ.
I personally felt as though this two-day experience provided me with invaluable knowledge about universities and the endless number of possibilities that can come from choosing a pathway in science. It inspired me to challenge myself and provided me with the confidence to continue to explore Biology and its many different branches.
...article written by Chloe Jones, Year 11