Redefining Limits through the 2026 ASO Summer School Experience
Nunu shares her experiences from the 2026 Australian Science Olympiads Summer School, where she embraced the intense biology lessons, experienced ‘campus life’, and made friends with her biology cohort as well as others from across the disciplines and across Australia.
“When I first signed up for the Biology Olympiad through PLC, I never imagined it would lead to an incredibly rewarding residential program at the 2026 Australian Science Olympiads Summer School, alongside students from all over the country.
Over two weeks at ANU, our dedicated tutors guided us through an entire first-year university biology course, covering topics from biochemistry and genetics to biotechnology and human physiology. Lectures were followed by hands-on lab sessions, where we learned a range of techniques and used specialised equipment I had never even heard of. I found the experience eye-opening and enjoyable despite the demanding pace; it not only extended my learning beyond VCE Biology but also helped shape my aspirations for future pathways in STEM.
Outside of academics, Summer School gave me an invaluable preview of university life and the chance to form lasting friendships with like-minded students — not only within the Biology program, but also across the Chemistry, Physics and Earth Science disciplines. Being surrounded by so many brilliant and ambitious peers was both humbling and motivating, encouraging me to redefine my own limits and aim higher.
Overall, Summer School was one of the most fulfilling and unforgettable experiences of my academic journey.”
Nunu
Year 12
Thank you to Nunu for contributing her amazing experience about the 2026 ASO Summer School with her classmates and school network at Presbyterian Ladies’ College Melbourne. The story was published in their PLC News newsletter.
Learn more about the Australian Science Olympiad Program. All students who wish to be considered for ASO Summer School and selection on the team representing Australia at the International Science Olympiads in the following year must sit our ASO Exam.
