This past August, as part of the In2science summer programme, we handpicked a group of In2science participants who shared our enthusiasm for content creation. These individuals joined us as In2science Digital Ambassadors.
In this blog post, we’ve invited our ambassadors to reflect on the influential figures, life-changing moments, or memorable experiences that first ignited their passion for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). Join us as we delve into the stories of our In2science Digital Ambassadors, Fiyin, Malaika, and Joshua, as they share the sparks that ignited their interest in STEM!
Fiyin’s story: The eggs that fly
I believe STEM subjects to be a beautiful range of subjects where the possibilities are limitless. A range of subjects where new scientific developments are constantly being discovered and changing the future of science as we know it. A range of subjects where no matter a person’s background or prior knowledge of the subject, there is always a way in which you’ll be able to participate in the discussion.
Part of my passion for STEM comes from the knowledge that whenever I step into a room, I may see other people who would strive and aim to help me throughout my career. Whether that be in research, practical lab work, fieldwork or even developing the theories that make all of the previously mentioned work possible.
My passion and intrigue for STEM subjects go back many many years ago. One of my earliest encounters with STEM was just over a decade ago, when my parents enrolled me in a summer programme intended to teach young children about the beauty of engineering. Due to my lack of knowledge about science, specifically engineering, at the time, I struggled to understand the topics being discussed. Despite wanting to learn and understand the topics, my overall foundation and basis of science were quite weak, leading me to become confused about topics that seemed to be common knowledge to others.
Along with the assistance and support of many of the educators on the programme, throughout the week I was able to understand different concepts that hadn’t even crossed my mind beforehand! One of my happiest memories on the programme was participating in the egg drop on the last day. Despite my flimsy cardboard house leading to my egg breaking, I didn’t let this situation push me away from STEM, but rather fuelled my interest for the subject and led me to run towards it.
Occasionally when I begin to struggle with science, I try and remember how it felt to see my egg float in the sky. Even if it was just for a brief amount of time, the joy and pride I felt in that situation have motivated me to trust in my skills and passion for science. Even if I don’t understand something, I can always ask for help from someone who I believe to be more educated on the task at hand.
Malaika’s story: Theory into Practice
My passion for STEM sparked as a child whilst growing up, acquiring knowledge about science in school and then building up some wisdom through school trips, science centres, museums, and monumental places! Even now, these places are so interesting to me!
Advancing into higher education, the concept of science and technology has always fascinated me and made me want to pursue something in STEM. My teachers and friends have always supported me, and being someone in my family to become so entailed in STEM, I have been supported with extra enthusiasm!
From attending workshops to going to volunteer in a science centre, my passion for STEM will always continue! One of my most memorable interactions is assisting young children in completing science experiments while volunteering at a local science centre! Engaging with young children and teaching them was one of my favourite experiences!
No matter which path you choose, there will always be an aspect of science, technology, engineering and maths!
Joshua’s story: An inspiring Particle Physics Masterclass
My interest in taking STEM further was sparked when I attended a 1-day Particle Physics masterclass hosted by the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, it was an introduction to particle physics on a more advanced level. The RAL is operated by the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) and they contribute to research involved with the Large Hadron Collider at CERN. During the masterclass, we undertook a workshop on data analysis using Python, which opened my eyes to the application of computational solutions with real-world data, and this brought about my interest in data science.
