Attending the 42nd ISS
By Joy Guo, Year 11
“A life lived in pursuit of excellence is a life well lived” - Professor Harry Messel.
On 2 July 2023, I began my journey to the 42nd Professor Harry Messel International Science School (ISS). Held every second year since 1962, the president of the Physics Foundation at The University of Sydney (USyd) described the ISS as: “a program which brings together 150 of the world’s most elite students who have the potential of leading the next generation in a journey through all fields of science.”
With selected students travelling from Japan, New Zealand, China, Thailand, the US and the UK, I was grateful for my four-hour journey, which led me to what would be my home for two weeks – Kincoppal-Rose Bay boarding school. The school resembled Hogwarts, but the best part was the priceless view, showcasing everything from a glistening Bondi Beach to the gorgeous city skyline, which included the Opera House and Harbour Bridge landmarks.
Each day we spent our time at USyd, attending various activities and participating in experiments inside university laboratories. We also attended lectures by esteemed professors visiting from Oxford University and PhD doctorates from Princeton and California Technology. Topics ranged from nuclear physics and quantum computing to stem cell development and dark matter, giving us an insight into university and research-level science.
Representing Radford College as one of only two students selected from the ACT, I was proud to receive a medallion while wearing my uniform at the gala reception night and official closing ceremony. Held in USyd's Great Hall, students then had the opportunity to network with successful and renowned individuals (alongside a chocolate fountain and doughnut wall). I met Professor Tara Murphy, the current head of Physics at USyd and many other esteemed professors. I also had the honour of conversing with the President of the Physics Foundation Michael Winternitz and former president Albert Wong. They both quoted the same line by Professor Harry Messel, stating: “If you’re interested in chemistry, study physics. If you’re interested in biology, study physics. Physics is the foundation to science.”
My personal highlight from the two weeks rewinds to day four when the cohort boarded a boat in Darling Harbour for a dinner cruise under the Harbour Bridge and a disco with views of the Opera house.
I strongly recommend students who will be in Year 11 or 12 in 2025 apply for this once-in-a-lifetime, all-expenses-paid-for, life-changing opportunity.