They say that the National Youth Science Forum will be one of the greatest experiences of your life. I never realized how true that would be until I was there myself. Attending NYSF was life-changing to say the least. I met some of the most incredible, like-minded people that I have ever met. Unfortunately, because my session ran during the Australian Bushfire Crisis, and safety was becoming an issue, we were all sent home early and our program was cut in half. Even so, I made some of the most amazing friendships and memories that I’ll always treasure. I can’t even begin to imagine what could’ve been and what more I could’ve experienced if our session ran to completion. When we all found out that the rest of the program was cancelled, many tears were shed as we’d all become so close. These people were like your new family. 

 Not only are you open to a whole new world of Science and (Science, Technology. Engineering and Mathematics STEM – which you do learn so much about – you experience a taste of what your future could be like: living like a uni student and being brought out of your comfort zone to try new things you’d never thought you’d do, and to meet people from all walks of life. 

 NYSF is a once in a lifetime experience that I’d highly recommend to anyone who has any of these interests. Having a youth program like this is so important, as we are the leaders of tomorrow. What we do now has a large impact on our future and so taking these opportunities is not only something enjoyable and memorable but so valuable. 

 You do not need to be the smartest or most social to be a part of the NYSF experience. I was surrounded by so many different kinds of people that it didn’t matter whether you know a lot about science or are the most confident. I know for me that it took a little bit to fully get out of my shell and to enjoy my time without missing my family and friends back home. It may be scary at times, but you will find your people and make some amazing memories, that is a guarantee.

 So, thank you Inverell East Rotary for this incredible experience. It is one I’ll never forget.

 Hannah Huynh