This week, we profile more of our eminently engaging In2science mentors. Please allow us to introduce you to…
Shanelle Valacovski
Shanelle Valacovski
La Trobe University student Shanelle’s passion for science was ignited when she started studying Psychology in VCE and found she was able to combine her scientific knowledge with her desire to help people. Now studying a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours), Shanelle has found the ability to undertake her own research project to be the most rewarding part of her course so far. Undertaking her second In2science placement this semester, Shanelle was excited to try her hand at mentoring a science class after her positive experiences in a maths class earlier in the year. Shanelle has stated that seeing students directly having an “aha!” moment after working with them has been really fantastic.
Thea Mucas
RMIT University student, Thea was drawn to Environmental Engineering due to its human-centred and ecologically conscious aspects. Growing up, Thea had always wanted to be a superhero; she found that becoming an engineer is similar in a way wherein she can be an everyday hero through creating solutions to help the world.
Thea Mucas
Science in high school was a range of experiences for Thea. What resonated the most, was her experience within a STEM program that introduced her to Engineering. Thea moved schools a lot and was able to participate in varying classrooms – from an advanced Engineering program to one in regional Victoria. What was common throughout, were passionate teachers that encouraged Thea throughout her journey.
Thea wanted to be a mentor to contribute to STEM outreach in order to encourage students to explore new possibilities and help out similarly to how other outreach programs inspired her to pursue her current field, especially as an underrepresented demographic within STEM.
Thea hopes to be able to give her class new perspectives on STEM pathways and ideas. Getting them excited and interested in the content is also a constant aim for Thea. She remembers being younger and having a set image of what someone in STEM should look like. Thea is keen to break down those stereotypes and have students understand that STEM is for anyone and everyone.
