Gr.10 Student Takes on YIS Lab Tech Internship

by Ken, Grade 10 Student

Gr.10 Student Takes on YIS Lab Tech Internship

Last year as a Gr.9 Student, nearing the end of the year, I began to explore universities and what they are looking for in candidates alongside my interests for the future. Talking to our high school counselors for advice, I was given one key piece of advice that opened my mind and gave way to many ideas “make your own opportunities."

Being an avid lover of science, I wanted to do something that would further involve me in the field and could also give me a small headstart in IBDP science courses. Approaching summer break, I saw some of my friends receive offer emails to summer programs hosted by universities that they had applied for; I had already missed the application deadline, so I would not be able to join any of the programs that I would have loved to attend. I was low-spirited until I realized that, “instead of being sad over something I can’t control, why shouldn’t I try to find another opportunity by looking at what I have rather than what I want?” That was when I saw the Lab Technician zoom past me and that gave me a thought, “I would ask the science department if I could intern as their assistant lab technician.” I went around to Ms. Bassett, Ms. Goessens, and several other science teachers asking if this internship would be feasible and allowed; I was asked about my reasons for wanting to do this internship, along with some other questions. Then I was told that they would ask around and was redirected to ask the Lab Technician, Ms. Kobayashi. Communicating with Ms. Kobayashi about this proposal, she was ecstatic and told me she would immediately send communications to our principal for further confirmation and the next steps. With prior work experience in the related field of IT and a positive attitude, I created then sent my resume over to the science department which was then relayed to relative departments and leadership positions. After communicating with Ms. Andrews, I received the all-clear sign from Health and Safety and started the internship.

Currently in 10th grade as an assistant lab technician, I have been helping to create solutions and maintain devices for the science department: from preparing some of the iodine solutions the 9th graders used, to calibrating and identifying malfunctioning pH sensors, I am lightening the load for our busy lab technician so that they can focus on more pressing matters. 

Understanding concepts ahead of the curriculum and having hands-on experience, I feel that I am learning skills such as troubleshooting and data interpretation in critical thinking that can be used throughout high school and into the future.

This internship allows me to help the science department and expand my knowledge on a topic that I am passionate about. The real question is, what opportunity will you create?