Last December, year 12 student Sophie Ineson and Jesse Rumball-Smith, a year 13 student from Wellington College, were selected by the Royal Society Te Apārangi to represent New Zealand at the International Science and Engineering Fair in Phoenix, Arizona.
Sophie, 17, said she had had an “amazing” time and the friendships she formed during the week were “incredible”.
“It was inspiring to spend time with other young people who share a passion for science and inquiry”, Sophie said.
The fair, held from May 9 to 15, involved about 1700 students from 60 countries.
After setting up their display, the students were interviewed on video by the media team.
“Our interview was shown during the opening ceremony which was exciting, especially knowing that my science teachers back at Southland Girls’ High School were watching.”
The opening ceremony was “unforgettable”.
“It was one of those moments where the world felt a little smaller and a lot more hopeful.
“Thousands of students from different cultures had come together to celebrate innovation, creativity, perseverance and learning.”
The next day each entrant made a presentation about their project.
Sophie was scheduled to give nine judging interviews but the number was extended to 13.
“Judging day was intense but rewarding.”
She received good feedback on her project, which investigated the chemical impacts of microplastics in the digestive system of king penguins.
Judges commented they were impressed she had completed the project at a high school level without access to a university laboratory.
“They described the project as innovative, creative and professionally presented.”
Regeneron, the event sponsor, also sponsored the biochemistry category in which Sophie’s project was entered.
She attended a networking session where she met scientists and professionals working within the company.
“Being able to discuss my project with leaders in the field and have them genuinely interested in my ideas was a surreal and motivating experience.”
Other highlights included events with judges and sponsors, a public outreach day where schools and community members visited the fair, a social event at the Arizona Diamondbacks baseball stadium and attending a Women’s National Basketball Association game.
She was very grateful to the Royal Society for making the trip possible and for the support of chaperone Amanda Hood.
She also appreciated the support of her science teachers at Southland Girls’, Bill Claridge and Brenda Goodwill.
The 40th New Zealand Aluminium Smelter Southland Science and Technology Fair is coming up in August and Sophie is planning her project for that.
“I also hope to help with judging junior projects.”
She will also continue mentoring younger students at school to take part through the Innovate Her Club.
