North Hills junior selected to attend Australia's prestigious International Science School
![Raine Dickinson]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1741804319/nhsdnet/gffnk6ydlyjkfjeuliit/RaineDickinson.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1741804319/nhsdnet/gffnk6ydlyjkfjeuliit/RaineDickinson.png","width":471}])
Heather Pelat
North Hills High School junior Raine Dickinson is one of just five students from the United States and 110 students from around the world selected to attend the prestigious International Science School in Australia this summer.
Held at the University of Sydney, the two-week program features world-class lectures from leading scientists in fields like physics, chemistry, biology and engineering, hands-on activities including lab tours, experiments and workshops, excursions, and team-building activities and events.
High-achieving high school students with a passion for science are invited to apply each year. Selection is highly competitive and based on academic merit, essays and sometimes teacher recommendations. This year’s program will run from July 6-19.
“She truly is an amazing young lady,” North Hills High School gifted education teacher Barbara Foster said of Raine. “She has participated in many GATE activities like the Westinghouse Science Honors Institute, Project Ignite at CMU and the 37th annual Faraday Lecture at the University of Pittsburgh. This new achievement is not only an honor for her, but also for the district!”
“I never thought in a million years I would get selected for something like International Science School,” said Raine of the honor, adding, “I cannot wait to meet the students from around the world and meet the scientists who will be teaching us. It will be life changing to have a chance like this. I’m so glad I applied.”
While the trip to the International Science School is fully funded, Raine is required to raise $1,000 for the host program, Higher Orbits, a non-profit organization that uses spaceflight and STEM education to inspire and engage students through hands-on programs, competitions and mentorship opportunities.
Raine’s fundraising page can be found here.
And her advice for others after being chosen for this highly acclaimed program?
“For everyone who thinks they won’t get into a program, job, university or anything JUST APPLY. You might surprise yourself,” she said.
Read Raine’s complete reaction to receiving her acceptance letter here.