After being inspired by her science teachers, Year 12 student Niamh Rudledge has decided to make it her career.
Niamh says she has a huge interest in psychological science, nurtured by her science teachers at St Teresa’s College Noosaville.
“Both my teachers have inspired me to pursue university study after school,” she says.
“I now know I want to be a criminal profiler.”
When speaking about her love for science, Niamh says she loves “learning how the brain works.”
“I find it fascinating the reasoning behind different people’s actions, as well as the effects of different brain injuries and mental illnesses.
“I would encourage other girls to pursue careers in science because it’s very rewarding when you discover new things.”
We are proud to hear just how inspiring Niamh’s teachers have been when it comes to her chosen field of study, and we wish her a very successful future in her chosen pathway.
Alannah Strong – St Finbarr’s Primary School Ashgrove and St Ambrose’s Primary School Newmarket

As the science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) teacher for two Brisbane Catholic Education (BCE) primary schools, Alannah Strong's week is quite the busy one.
She spends her time skyrocketing between St Finbarr's Primary School Ashgrove and St Ambrose's Primary School Newmarket.
Alannah says she realised her true passion was teaching STEAM after starting her early career in fashion, design, and media, before working for 10 years as a primary school teacher.
“Science lessons were always a highlight in my classroom as I would see the student's faces light up with passion and curiosity," she says.
“I love teaching science and hearing the squeal of excitement from students when conducting experiments.
“In STEAM I get to combine my passions and interests with the students' and learn alongside them."
When speaking about being a woman working in science, Alannah is passionate.
“Expanding participation for women and girls in technology and science can bring new and fresh perspectives to the field, and ensure diversity in research, and other specialised projects," she added.
“Closing the gender gap and changing the image of what a scientist, coder, engineer or programmer looks like allows girls to see themselves as the change makers, problem solvers, and leaders of the future.
“International Day of Women and Girls in Science is important as it puts a spotlight and focus on achieving gender equality in Science and STEM.
“Women in STEM bring unique essential knowledge, skillsets, and ideas to the field and we are beginning to see a shift with companies looking for these fresh and diverse perspectives.
“It is important to have a day to honour and celebrate the women who are the change makers, rule breakers, and icons of the STEM field."
We couldn't agree more Alannah and thank you for your commitment to your young students at St Finbarr's Primary School Ashgrove and St Ambrose's Primary School Newmarket.
Samantha Eddy – St Joachim's Catholic Primary School Holland Park

Samantha Eddy says her female students hold the key to ending some of the world's largest issues.
In fact, the Digital and Design Technology Teacher at St Joachim's Catholic Primary School Holland Park is confident some of her students will go on to change the world.
“Most of our lessons are inquiry-based, bringing in elements of science, engineering and maths," Samantha explains.
“I love teaching science because it's such an amazing area of growth and change, and I find it exciting to be part of.
“The innovators in the industry are such amazing people who show such resilience and passion for their work.
“Most of all though, it is my female students who come through the doors everyday who inspire me.
“They are the ones who are always looking for ways to make a difference in our world, and careers in STEM are the answer to issues around sustainability, poverty, hunger, and healthcare."
When speaking about the future, Samantha says she is preparing her students for careers which may not even exist yet.
“Science is the future, so it's important my students develop the skills to be curious and inquisitive learners," she says.
“As an educator, it is a privilege to be a small part of my students' journey."
Thank you Samantha for believing in all the wonderful possibilities ahead for your students and the world they will lead in their adulthood.
Kaylene Solomon – San Sisto College Carina

Kaylene Solomon has made it her mission to encourage more young women to explore careers in science.
“I'd love to know that I am helping to bridge the gap in this profession, by inspiring the next generation of women," says the STEM Teacher for San Sisto College Carina.
When speaking about the successes she counts throughout her career as an educator, Kaylene says, “I consider my greatest professional achievements to be the progression of any of my students to careers in STEM."
“I want my students to have curiosity about the world around them," she says.
“The opportunities for female students to 'wonder' at San Sisto College are part of the reason why I enjoy teaching here so much."
Kaylene added that the International Day of Women and Girls in Science is “important because it allows her students to converse and question role models within STEM industries."
We hope more young women choose careers in STEM after being guided by dedicated educators like Kaylene.