The Future Science Leaders program launched in 2011. It was designed to be a talent incubator, to provide gifted students with an opportunity to engage with university-level tops and activities otherwise unavailable at home or school. This competitive nine-month program attracts exceptional grade 10 and 11 students who are insatiably curious, eager for a challenge, and willing to take risks while exploring new ideas. In this interview, we chat with Kat Kelly and learn a bit more about what goes on during Future Science Leaders.
First off, tell us a little bit about yourself.
I am a Physics and Astronomy undergrad and a full time Science Facilitator at Science World. I like to read, play video games, work out and play guitar.
How did you get involved in the Future Science Leaders program?
I had heard a lot about the program so I went to the Year-End Showcase, which is where the students show off their projects throughout the year. Parents, family and friends attend and within 5 minutes of seeing these inspiring kids I knew I wanted to be a part of the program. A few months later the job opened up and I applied.
What is your role in Future Science Leaders?
I teach the Year 2 Engineering stream. My role includes teaching skills such as coding, 3D printing, soldering, circuitry and Arduino, sewing and carpentry. The students can use the skills they gained to work on an original project for the second term. My role then becomes guiding them through the planning process, ordering parts, time management and paper writing.
Why is the Future Science Leaders program important?
The students who apply for FSL often already have the background knowledge in Science and know how to work hard. What FSL gives them is the skills they need to do well in the environments the are likely to encounter as a future science leader. This includes things like public speaking, writing papers, proposals and reports, time management, blogging and notebook keeping. The practical skills are also helpful to give them the hands on experience they need to do well in their field.
Do you have a favorite Future Science Leaders moment?
Always the Year-End Showcase. I get very excited and emotional seeing the students get up on stage and present their ideas. All of their parents are so proud and the students are so supportive of each other. Often the FSL students aren’t aware of how far they’ve come and the open house always shows them what they have achieved.