Catharina Moenig, Year 12
Writing an Extended Essay on the natural sciences isn’t easy, whether it’s a world studies essay or a purely science essay.
On Wednesday, March the 2nd, LGB was honoured to host 3 speakers, qualified to give those doing an Extended Essay on the sciences some advice and guidance. Three professionals were professionals in their fields, distinguished and a great help to all those who attended their session.
The trio consisted of Dr. Fabrizio Giordano, a scientist and electrical engineer, who works for EPFL (LPI department) to improve the performance of solar cells. Dr. Giordano aided students who were searching for guidance regarding solar power and sustainability.
There was also Dr. Nick Tetreault, a material Scientist, who is a consultant at Sofies SA, a consulting firm that specializes in issues concerning sustainability. They work with organizations to find solutions to their environmental and socio-economic problems as well as to optimize the use of natural resources. Dr. Tetreault, like Dr. Giordano, was a valuable source for students exploring issues in sustainability.
Finally, there was Dr. Umberto Cannella, a physicist working for EPFL and the Swiss space center. Dr. Cannella was a huge help for students looking to develop research in the fields of physics, technology and space.
The year 12 students, who were present, were separated into three smaller groups where they were able to receive one-on-one advice from the professionals. They listened to our ideas, provided us with constructive feedback, gave us ideas on possible experiments to conduct and possible fields we could further look into. They also took it a step further by taking the time to provide students with viable sources where students can gain access to information and research on their designated areas.
The workshop made the task of writing an Extended Essay in the sciences much simpler, overall. It was a different experience for the students, having the ability to ask for advice from a professional. Writing an Extended Essay on the natural sciences isn’t easy, but it is opportunities like these that make the task much less difficult.
