Nysa G accepted for a prestigious summer of STEM!

With an acceptance rate of less than 10%, The New York Academy of Sciences has accepted Nysa to two prestigious summer programmes, 'The Junior Academy' and '1000 Girls, 1000 Futures'. Nysa was a perfect candidate, having undertaken an IGCSE in Design Technology: Systems & Controls, VEX robotics, Accelerated Math Class, Drama productions and Duke of Edinburgh alongside her enormous passion for STEM.

We asked Nysa about her experience applying to these programmes. Nysa has kindly answered our questions and provided some great insight below: 

How did you find out about these programmes? 

My family knows about my passion for STEM. I was eager to do something in-depth in STEM over a period of time, and this is when a relative of mine had directed me to the New York Academy of Sciences website. I had explored the website and found the programmes which were most suitable for me.

What experiences helped you gain a place? 

Being the only girl in my Design Technology: Systems & Controls class gave me the confidence to believe that I can take on any challenge. Many other things, such as being in an accelerated maths class, being a part of Vex Robotics, assisting and performing in a drama production, and completing the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award, and along with other things, have shaped me to be accepted into these programmes.

What motivated you to choose these specific programmes?

I chose these specific programmes because both of them would be great opportunities to enhance my understanding and experience in STEM. I was motivated to apply for the Junior Academy because it's a global network of like-minded individuals all passionate about STEM. It would be an exceptional experience to meet new people, improve my skills, and work on an impactful and innovative project. The 1000 Girls, 1000 Futures programme called out to me since STEM is a predominantly male field. I thought that the idea of a one-to-one mentoring program for young women in STEM was so empowering, and that's what motivated me to apply for it.

What did you have to do in the application process to gain a place for these programmes?  and how did you prepare? 

As a part of my applications, I had to respond to essay questions. One question asked me to write about why I want to join, why I would be a good candidate, and what I would be gaining from the program. Another question I had to answer, as a part of my Junior Academy application was, which global or local problem I'd like to work towards solving and why so. There is no preparation required for the questions as they're mainly looking to know about you and your purpose.

Any other tips for students that might be interested in these programmes?

For any students interested in this programme, I would say that your application should shine! In the essays, I'd recommend writing everything about yourself, your ambitions, and the value you'll add to the programme.