STEM Excellence By Gideon Tse

Student: Gideon Tse

School: Grade 11 Student At Yarra Valley Grammar

Social Media: LinkedIn

Can You Share How You Discovered Your Chosen Pathway And The Steps You’ve Taken To Proactively Pursue It?

I discovered my passion for Biomedical Engineering through a combination of curiosity and hands-on exploration in STEM. My journey began early but truly gained direction through engagement with programs like CSIRO’s CREST initiative, the Microsoft AI For Good Challenge, and the Science Talent Search.

These programs allowed me to delve into various research projects, including Micropropagation, Biomimicry, and AI wearable devices, which not only cemented my interest but also highlighted the transformative potential of Biomedical Engineering in addressing real-world challenges. To proactively advance along this path, I undertook work placements at the Monash Biomedical Discovery Institute and WEHI, where I refined my laboratory skills. Additionally, I pursued advanced studies at institutions such as Deakin University, RMIT, INSEAD, and the University of Melbourne, focusing on Biomedical Science, Forensic Science, and Molecular Biology. These experiences have inspired me to pursue a PhD in Biomedical Engineering to develop innovative solutions in the future.

What Are Some Of The Key Projects You've Worked On That Highlight Your Versatility And Problem-Solving Skills? How Have These Experiences Shaped Your Professional Journey?

Throughout my academic and extracurricular pursuits, I have completed a variety of projects that showcase my versatility and problem-solving skills. I led an international team at the Junior Academy of the New York Academy of Sciences, using AI to address educational inequality. This experience honed my technical skills and emphasised the importance of teamwork. In the scientific field, my Micropropagation project with CSIRO deepened my analytical abilities by exploring complex biological processes.

During my Year 10 placements at leading research institutes, I further developed my laboratory and science communication skills through detailed studies on ubiquitin signalling. Additionally, my involvement in sports, community service, and music, combined with leadership roles both inside and outside of school, has sharpened my ability to communicate, lead, collaborate, innovate, and perform under pressure. These skills are crucial for navigating challenges and turning them into opportunities in my future studies and career in Biomedical Engineering.

Balancing Multiple Projects And Interests Can Be Challenging. How Do You Manage Your Time And Focus To Excel In Various Endeavors?

Balancing multiple projects and interests requires meticulous organisation and disciplined time management. I use Google Calendar to strategically plan each day, ensuring I allocate time effectively across my studies, extracurricular activities like orchestra practice and tennis, as well as community service. This structured planning extends to breaking down assignments into manageable tasks and utilising learning apps for language practice during commutes.

Self-care is integral to my routine; I prioritise rest, exercise, social activities, and hobbies to stay motivated and maintain my well-being. Flexibility is crucial—I regularly adjust my schedule to accommodate new commitments and unexpected challenges, while leveraging mentorship and seizing opportunities for personal and professional growth. This comprehensive approach ensures that I not only manage my daily tasks efficiently but also nurture my long-term aspirations in Biomedical Engineering. By continuously refining these strategies, I maintain a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle, keeping me on track toward achieving my goals.

Can You Talk About A Specific Instance Where Your Ability To Adapt And Learn Quickly Made A Difference In A Project Or Initiative?

During the Junior Academy competition at the New York Academy of Sciences, I had the opportunity to lead a team of six students from multiple countries for 10 weeks, navigating the complexities of coordinating across different time zones. To address this challenge, I quickly adopted a time-zone management tool called Launchpad and implemented a shared Google document for seamless virtual collaboration. These changes significantly improved our efficiency and helped us overcome the logistical hurdles of working remotely.

When unexpected technical issues threatened our progress, I swiftly gained proficiency in Microsoft Power BI to refine our AI-driven solution. This ability to adapt and quickly learn new tools not only saved our project but also led to a higher level of innovation, earning us the prestigious Top 10 Team of Distinction title. This experience underscored the critical importance of adaptability and rapid learning in overcoming unforeseen challenges and achieving collective success.

What Role Has Your Commitment To Personal And Professional Development Played In Your Achievements, And How Do You Continue To Grow In These Areas? My dedication to personal and professional development has been pivotal in my achievements. I actively pursue growth through academics, extracurricular activities, and leadership roles, allowing me to excel in diverse areas such as STEM, music, and sports. This holistic approach has significantly expanded my skill set and opened up new pathways. To ensure continual growth, I set clear objectives, actively seek feedback, and engage in regular self-reflection.

I participate in mentorship programs, attend workshops, immerse myself in relevant readings, and compete in various competitions, all of which can enrich my personal and professional development. Embracing both challenges and learning from successes and failures helps me maintain a path of continuous improvement. This unwavering commitment not only propels my current achievements but also equips me with the resilience and skills needed for future studies and a career in Biomedical Engineering. This foundation ensures I am well-prepared to innovate in this field.

As Someone Who Is Already Making Strides In Your Chosen Field, What Are Your Future Plans? How Do You Intend To Further Enhance Your Skills And Contribute To Meaningful Projects? As I advance in Biomedical Engineering, my immediate goal is to pursue a Bachelor's degree at the Melbourne University and a PhD at Oxford University, where I aim to develop the expertise necessary to create innovative health solutions, including wearable diagnostic devices, advanced nanomaterials for implants, and non-invasive cancer treatments. My passion for transforming patient care and pushing the boundaries of medical technology drives this pursuit.

I plan to actively participate in research projects, overseas exchange programs, and internships to gain hands-on experience, while collaborating with industry partners and seeking mentorship from academic researchers to enhance my ability to develop cost-effective medical solutions. Additionally, I am committed to contributing to global health initiatives, particularly those that address public health challenges in underprivileged communities. By applying my skills to create accessible medical technologies, I aim to extend the impact of my work beyond academia, ensuring it benefits society as a whole.

What Advice Would You Give To Other Young People Who Aspire To Be All-Rounders And Take Proactive Steps Toward Their Professional Goals While Still In School?

As a high school student aspiring to be a standout all-rounder while pursuing professional goals, I would advise embracing every growth opportunity. Start by setting clear, achievable goals that align with your passions, whether in STEM, the arts, or sports. Effective time management is crucial; use tools to organise your schedule, balancing academics and extracurricular activities efficiently.

Stay curious and always eager to learn, as this will open doors to new experiences and deepen your knowledge. Don’t hesitate to step out of your comfort zone, as significant growth often occurs there. Engage in diverse activities and take on leadership roles; these are vital for developing a broad skill set and gaining various perspectives. Also, seek mentorship and feedback—learning from those who have walked similar paths offers invaluable guidance. Remember, being an all-rounder isn’t just about managing multiple activities but excelling in them and making impactful contributions to your community.

Gideon Tse participated in our Next Gen Awards 2024 program and was a finalist of the Next Gen Of The Year category. To find out more about the Next Gen Awards and how your projects and initiatives can be showcased head to: www.nextgenoftheyear.com