Introducing Dr YiJie Neo, a remarkable alum from the 2015-16 Curious Minds program, who went on to be selected in the Earth Science Olympiad team, winning a Gold medal at the 2017 International Earth Science Olympiad in France.

YiJie recently told us about the highlights of doing the Curious Minds program and the impact the program has, including leading to her participation in the Australian Science Olympiads ‘Earth and Environmental Science’ program.

“The exposure to Earth Science led to me sitting the Australian Science Olympiads exams in 2016, from which I found myself invited to the Earth Science Olympiad Summer School in 2017, and was then fortunate enough to represent Australia in the 2017 International Earth Science Olympiad in France where I won an individual gold medal and silver international team (Earth Science Project) medal.”

“The whole journey was absolutely surreal and life-changing – I’m sure I would not have sat the Olympiad exams if not for Curious Minds. The EESO journey was incredible and I’m so grateful for the newfound love for Earth Science which literally revolutionised how I see the world, and the EESO family – comprising a network of friends across Australia and the globe. I had IESO 2017 friends from Germany and France visit me in Melbourne as recently as 2024, 7 whole years after we met for the first time!”

“It’s so important to provide opportunities like these to young girls who are so excited about STEM, but might not have the networks or resources to learn about how to pursue their dreams. So many of us wrestle with impostor syndrome, or a feeling like we don’t belong, like we aren’t smart or talented enough to deserve a place in the world of STEM; but it’s simply not true! I can’t understate the importance of role models like coaches in banishing these misconceptions.”

Read more about Dr YiJie’s amazing and inspiring story, from enthusiastic Curious Minds participant, to now returning as an inspiring Curious Minds STEM Coach.

Thank you, Dr. YiJie, your story is the perfect way to celebrate International Women’s Day 2025.

ASI is proud to co-deliver the Curious Minds – girls in STEM program. Thank you to the Department of Education, and to all our Curious Minds sponsors and partners. Thank you to our university partners, the University of Adelaide and the Australian National University.