November 2024
Science Olympics: STEM at Victoria Park
A deep dive into the Science Olympics club at Victoria Park Collegiate Institute.
From cubing to web development, Victoria Park Collegiate Institute offers a variety of clubs, with one of the finest being Science Olympics. Science Olympics is starting once again, with its introductory meeting taking place on November 13.
To gain insight into how Victoria Park students outside Science Olympics perceive the club, Panther Press asked, “What do you think Science Olympics is?” Some students understood it as a club “primarily focused on science events and competitions,” while others interpreted it as “an athletic event to raise money for science” or “hurdling, but with equations.”
Being a STEM-focused club, Science Olympics faces challenges attracting members not interested in STEM, which was addressed in the meeting. To solve this, the executive team promises events tailored to everyone, not just experts in STEM. Events like “scavenger hunts” are included to ensure Science Olympics is fun for those not interested in science; a statement made by the executive team is “whether or not science is for you, there’s always stuff you can do.”
Science Olympics highlights its focus in STEM with events in biology, engineering, chemistry, maths, robotics, and astronomy. There are no entry barriers; prior experience isn’t required as training will be provided. Participants can develop problem-solving and teamwork skills, apply scientific knowledge, and have fun! Meetings will be in room 211, on Wednesdays during lunch. Drop-in workshops begin on November 20th, and training will take place in the second semester.
To conclude this article, we held an interview with Science Olympics executive Shirley Chen.
Samuel Guo: What has Victoria Park Science Olympics done to make itself more appealing to all people?
Shirley Chen: This year we're really emphasising making Science Olympics more accessible and well-known. Workshops are run in room 211 on Wednesdays at lunch, and we hope this generates more interest for those wishing to join in the spring.
SG: What does Science Olympics offer that can elevate the high school experience?
SC: Science Olympics is a great way to know people from different grades and an amazing way to apply yourself in the STEM field. Essentially, the more you practise, the more you win. VP sweep!
SG: What is your favourite part of Victoria Park’s Science Olympics?
SC: Personally, I think winning is good; winning with your team is even better, and there really isn't anything better than winning with friends while doing STEM challenges. We hope to see everyone there!