Can you believe it? The countdown to the Professor Harry Messel International Science School in Sydney is officially in the single digits! It feels like just yesterday I was pinching myself about being accepted, and now, my bags are almost packed, and my passport is ready. A few close friends have been in Australia for the past two weeks with the organization EF Tours, sending me incredible pictures and getting me more and more excited for what awaits!
I've been going over the schedule one last time, mentally preparing for the incredible two weeks ahead. Learning about dark matter with Dr. Katie Mack, diving into sustainable energy with Prof. Sven Teske, exploring protein folding and AI with Dr. Kate Michie, and getting insights into science communication from Dr. Karl and his AI chatbot, it's going to be a whirlwind of knowledge and inspiration. But beyond the lectures, I'm just so ready for the entire experience. Meeting students from all corners of the globe, exchanging ideas, and soaking in the atmosphere of a completely new country and hemisphere.
I’ve also been daydreaming about walking through the campus of the University of Sydney. I’ve seen photos of its stunning sandstone buildings, gothic arches, and grassy courtyards, and it gives off total Hogwarts vibes. The architecture also really reminds me of the old Irish castles that I got to see last year. Brianna, who attended ISS 2023, couldn’t stop talking about how magical the architecture was and I can’t wait to see it all with my own eyes.
At this point, I’m mostly just ready to get started. I know it’s going to be a packed two weeks, and I’m sure there’ll be moments where it feels overwhelming. But more than anything, I feel incredibly lucky to be joining my Higher Orbit Teammates, Raz, Evelyn, Raine, and Abigail to be part of what is to be an incredible experience.
Written by Stellar Student Yuki
