When one
is asked to describe his or her experience as a participant at the London
International Youth Science Forum too many different memories come to mind but
for everyone one thing is the same: the nostalgia you feel remembering this
unique and fantastic opportunity as it is an experience that stays in one’s
heart forever. Therefore, imagine how excited I was when I was called to return
as a staff member for a second time so as to have another wonderful year at
LIYSF!
So, to
anyone that doesn’t know me, my name is Kyriaki Protopapa, I come from Cyprus
and I am currently studying History at the University of Manchester. It usually
makes people wonder what a history student is doing as a staff member at a
science forum. However, at LIYSF, knowledge about science is open to anyone who
loves learning and is passionate about sciences, even to those who do not
aspire to follow a career in this field.
I was
always deeply involved with sciences, both back in high school and in my free
time. Mathematics and Chemistry have always been my fascination, especially
anything that includes testing scientific theories in practice. Whether it was
the formation of a precipitate or the colour change of a solution I was
thrilled to perform a practical experiment in the chemistry lab - while my high school teacher was
shocked with the amount of test tubes and burettes I broke and the number of
solutions I contaminated by sometimes being careless and clumsy!
I was
lucky enough to be selected to participate in 2011 by representing Cyprus. One
of the most honourable moments during my participation was when I was picked to
be the flag bearer of my country during the Opening Ceremony. I remember I was
quite nervous because we didn’t have any clue yet as to what LIYSF is all about
and what an awesome adventure it was going to be proven. Nevertheless, all my
anxiety calmed down by the time we performed traditional songs and dances
during the International Cabaret just a few days later, since by then I knew almost
all 300 participants.
One of my
favourite moments during LIYSF is definitely the Treasure Hunt as its guaranteed
fun! Participants should form a team and they have to look for clues all over
the South Kensington area where Imperial Collage is situated. The catch is that
each team should consist of people of at least three different nationalities;
therefore, it was just another way for me to meet even more people and form
long-lasting friendships with same-minded scientists that come from all around
the world!
Every
year the Science Forum proves to be a complete different experience filled with
fun and lifelong memories. If I could give just one piece of advice to
forthcoming participants it would be to enjoy LIYSF as much as possible. Don’t
miss out on anything and meet as many people as possible because everybody is
super friendly and equally excited about being there as you. And of course,
don’t forget to bring your cameras to capture all the amazing moments and the
new things you get to experience, mostly because you will be describing those
to your friends back home for years to come!
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