An enthusiastic group of 15 Year 10 school students from Mark Oliphant and St Columba Colleges have spent the start of their July school holidays getting a taste of what a science degree at the University of Adelaide has to offer.The program seeks to give high school students a feel for the different science disciplines before they make their SACE subject choices.
The program saw them visit the Waite Campus on Thursday 14 July where they toured the Plant Accelerator, the greenhouses and the winery. Associate Professor Chris Ford spoke to the students about the four undergraduate degree programs offered at the Waite, and they participated in a flavour and aroma sensory exercise to learn about wine chemistry with Lieke van der Hulst.
Students said they found the exercise more challenging than expected and also reported that the week had given them some great insights into further study and potential careers in science. The students also spent time at North Terrace campus, Roseworthy and Hallett Cove for a geology practical session during the week long program.
“The schools involved are partner institutions in the Faculty of Sciences Early Entry Program, which seeks to promote STEM subjects in High Schools and provide a pathway to a Science degree at the University of Adelaide”, said University of Adelaide Marketing and Outreach Officer Amanda Marshall.