24 November, 2023

BIS Hanoi student attending the MIT-Nord Anglia STEAM trip: a once-in-a-lifetime experience

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As part of the Nord Anglia family, our students have the unique opportunity to learn from the heart of innovation at MIT!

Earlier this month, 50 students from Nord Anglia schools around the world, including our representative, Hyeonchan (Year 10), gathered at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) for a unique experience that brings to life the MIT-NAE STEAM collaboration.

On the very first day of their trip, the students had the chance to attend various workshops conducted by MIT professors. These workshops covered a range of topics, including strobe photography and unmanned boats, among others. On the second day, they interacted with PhD students, took part in a Model UN-style ‘Climate Action Simulation’, and learned all about high-speed cameras, exoplanets, laser printing, and more. To conclude their experience, the students worked on their sustainability projects using exciting equipment including 3D modelling software and 3D printers! It was an incredible experience to be in the heart of innovation at MIT!

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Hyeonchan (bottom right) with other students at the MIT campus.

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We sat down with Hyeonchan (Year 10) to hear more about this amazing event from his own perspective.

How did you feel when you were selected to go on the MIT-Nord Anglia STEAM trip?

I was ecstatic to be selected for the MIT STEAM Trip. I could not believe that I had actually been chosen despite the low chances. In order to participate in the trip, I had to complete a challenge. The challenge was to "hack," which is one of MIT's traditions of practical jokes and pranks that test technical aptitude. I was successful in completing the challenge and was selected to join the trip. It was important to demonstrate my creativity, humour, and technical skills to complete the challenge. Overall, I was delighted to have a new and valuable experience that I will never forget.

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Hyeonchan (middle) with other students at the event.

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What impressed you the most during the trip?

The students' enthusiasm was the most impressive thing about the trip. Everyone, including the staff members, was eager to learn and actively shared their thoughts and ideas on the topics we discussed. One of the activities was MUN, which perfectly illustrated the enthusiasm and mood of the trip. We shared our ideas freely and discussed our problems, adjusting ourselves and negotiating to achieve our goals. It was one of the most challenging discussions I have ever had, but it was also very helpful and enjoyable.

What did you learn from the experience of being able to meet and work with MIT professors, PhD students, and fellow students from other Nord Anglia schools?

The most important value I learned from the trip was the passion for learning. I was exposed to new ideas and perspectives, and I gained a better understanding of the different ways that people think about and solve problems. For example, in the main project we worked on, our group faced some challenges but was able to overcome them through teamwork and communication. This experience taught me the importance of problem-solving skills, teamwork, and communication from different perspectives.

Thank you for sharing, Hyeonchan!