“I’m Anneliese, and during the July break, I got the chance to attend a science and STEM course at RMIT University called Women in Aerospace and Defence. It focussed on STEM elements such as satellite tracking from space, but also gave an insight into many different geospatial and Australian Defence Force careers.
I really enjoy science and have been doing STEM projects since I was young. When this opportunity came up, I was surprised to find that I got into it along with 80 other applicants.
After the first practical – a geospatial activity on Monday – we spent Tuesday and Wednesday morning preparing for a presentation. It was on the data we had collected. It was a great experience. We had to work together as a team and overcome challenges, such as communication and tech difficulties.
There were some really good sessions from people working at the Australian Geospatial Organisation and the Australian Defence Force. They told us about their careers and what it’s like on a day-to-day basis.
Almost all the girls I talked to didn’t go to VSV, however, I did meet one girl who was studying a VCE subject at VSV. It was a good push out of my comfort zone to make new friends! It was really fun getting to know girls from different schools and different suburbs.
If you are interested in science or defence, and are looking for some career options, I would recommend applying for this course. It was a great experience – I learned new things, made new friends and got to do something out of the ordinary!”
Anneliese is a Year 10 Science student at VSV
