Nominated by a Yass High teacher for her studies, Amy Kelly nevertheless says she was “quite surprised” to be recognised with a state-level award.
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The Year 11 student has received a Victor Chang School Science Award.
She was one of 36 top students in secondary science from south-east NSW to be selected for the award, announced at a November 16 ceremony.
The award recognises students for their commitment and effort in the subjects of science, technology, engineering and mathematics subjects.
Amy’s parents proudly attended the ceremony in Wollongong with her.
Amy’s love for science is based on “discovering how science can make a difference to the world and learning how everything works”.
Now in its 13th year, the award aims to encourage the next generation of scientists to pursue a career in medical research.
“I’m looking to go to uni to study biomedical science,” Amy said. “Maybe at the ANU or University of Wollongong.”
Highly engaged in her learning, Amy has achieved academic excellence in her preliminary courses, having placed first in both chemistry and biology.
The award recognised her outstanding communication and problem-solving skills, as someone capable of taking difficult concepts to simplify and explain to other students without her peers feeling diminished in any way.
The award is named in honour of the late cardiac surgeon Victor Chang, who pioneered modern heart transplantation.
The 36 students were acknowledged at a ceremony at Figtree High School attended by Dr Joshua Ho from the Victor Chang Institute.
“Australia has such a proud science history,” Dr Ho said.
“Through acknowledging these young students, we’re giving the next generation of scientists the opportunity to see how research can directly touch people’s everyday lives.
“As a scientist, not only are you contributing to building knowledge, but you are constantly solving problems and seizing opportunities while improving the wellbeing of society.”
