I have always admired MIT, renowned for its STEM offerings including top-tier science and mathematics programs. Its ‘Mind and Hand’ motto stands for MIT’s mission to advance knowledge in science and technology in a way that would help to make the world a better place. I thought it would be a tremendous opportunity and even though I knew my chances might have been slim I was determined to do my very best.
I started by researching MIT and the more I learned about their hands-on approach to science and innovation the more excited and motivated I got. I realized I would need to present on something unique but even more importantly it needed to be something I felt passionate about.
‘The biggest threat to humanity in the nineteenth century was pneumonia. In the twentieth century it was cancer. In the twenty-first century it is likely to be insanity’* While we cannot possibly know all the reasons, I believe that environmental pollution is one that affects our brains and induces behavioral changes in ways we do not fully comprehend yet. If I were an innovator at MIT, I would join the fight against the disease at every level – from the lab and design of Lego-block like chemical compounds fit for recycling on molecular level to raising awareness of preventative measures to minimize pollution, to raising funds for further research, to integration of its findings into our daily lives and introducing biodegradable plastics into less developed countries.
I recorded my presentation and sent it to the judging committee before the deadline. In May 2024, I received an email which started from ‘I am delighted to announce…’ – you can probably imagine my joy. I was elated.
In the end of October 2024, I went to join a group of students from all over the world for a week of MIT-Nord Anglia STEAM experience at the MIT campus in Boston.
After what felt like a long trip with a layover in Zurich, where I met other participants, I remember arriving in Boston at midnight. Having checked in at the hotel, exhausted yet excited, I got to share a room with a student from Malaysia. Despite the late hour, we immediately hit it off and began exchanging stories about our hobbies and interests. Over the course of the week, we built a strong relationship, and I came to realize how important it is to connect with peers from different backgrounds, especially when pursuing innovation. This global perspective would prove invaluable throughout our time at MIT.
Each day was filled with a mix of workshops, hands-on projects and discussions with MIT students. We woke up early every morning and spent hours at the MIT campus, soaking up knowledge in state-of-the-art laboratories, exhibits and lecture halls. We partook in different challenges and came up with ideas to solve the world's problems. It was incredible to be surrounded by people so passionate about their fields and I felt a deep sense of inspiration. One of the most memorable experiences during our time was an opportunity to eat at the MIT dining hall. Sitting alongside MIT students, we could talk to them about their majors, the research they were involved in, how they got accepted to the university and how they viewed the future of innovation. These conversations were priceless, as they not only broadened my view on science and technology but also made me realize that the innovators of tomorrow were sitting right next to me.
As the week progressed, we were split into groups to work on a final project, which I found to be one of the most rewarding parts of the experience. Our task was to design and build a specialized camera that would be sent to Alaska to capture the northern lights. The challenge required us to think creatively, as we had to ensure that the camera could withstand extreme cold and record the auroras in time-lapse format.
We worked tirelessly, using a reflective surface to trap heat from the battery, ensuring that the camera would remain operational in freezing temperatures. We also developed a GPS tracker to monitor its location and designed a thermal casing to protect the equipment. Our project was selected as one of the top 3 most efficient cameras and I felt a deep sense of pride in our team’s success. The project not only taught me about the importance of collaboration but also gave me insight into the kind of rigorous problem-solving that MIT encourages.
On our final day, we took a Duck Boat tour through Boston, visiting iconic sites. We also visited Harvard University, where we learned about their approach to education and innovation. Walking around their campus, I could not help but reflect on how much my MIT experience had shaped my understanding of science and how I hoped to continue pursuing these interests in the future.
Looking back on the entire experience, I cannot help but feel immensely grateful. The MIT-Nord Anglia STEAM experience not only deepened my passion for innovation but also opened my eyes to the importance of collaboration, hands-on learning and a global perspective in tackling some of the world’s biggest challenges. It was truly an amazing opportunity and it inspired me to push my own boundaries as an innovator and continue exploring new ways to contribute to the world. I really enjoyed the trip and would definitely go again if I had another chance. I strongly recommend it.
Adam T.
Year 10
