The club sponsored two outstanding Year 12 students to attend the National Youth Science Forum — a 10-day program designed to give students a broader understanding of the diverse study and career options available in science.
Cobram Rotary youth director Ellie Stephens said the club was fortunate to be able to sponsor Cobram Anglican Grammar School students Liam Smith and Megan Gossayn.
“We are very supportive of youth development through a number of programs offered to the local secondary schools,” she said.
“Our sponsorship is a support to parents who are trying to give their kids the best opportunities.
“Last year was a difficult year for fundraising because of COVID-19 but we committed to this, everything we fundraise goes back into the community.”
This year's conference was held online as a result of coronavirus restrictions.
Miss Gossayn — who has a passion for quantum physics — said the program helped her eliminate career paths and determine her study goals.
“I was originally worried about it being an online program but it ended up being really good,” she said.
“Everyone seemed really smart and knowledgeable and at first it was hard to include myself in that but I thank the Rotary Club for their sponsorship because it was life-changing.”
Miss Gossayn said she made lifelong friendships at the conference.
“I highly recommend other kids do it, not just to figure out what you want to do but just to make those connections,” she said.
Mr Smith also made important connections through the conference and said it was a fantastic experience.
“We're still chatting with the people we met online, I didn't notice any interference with social interaction,” he said.
“I've always been pretty set on computer science and the forum helped me meet people — there was someone there who's doing what I want to do — the exact university and course.”
Cobram Anglican Grammar School head of senior school Ash Kennedy put forward two exemplary students for the program.
“It is important for students who are passionate to have these opportunities outside the regular curriculum,” Mr Kennedy said.
“They will be able to put this on their resume and it may help them towards receiving scholarships.”
Mr Kennedy thanked the Rotary club for its support.
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