“Fitting the I’m a Scientist activity around my job was fortunately quite a success: I was able to fit the live chats around my shift pattern.” – Jess Leung, Quality Technician at Kerry Ingredients

Jess Leung took part in an I’m a Scientist general zone along with five other scientists from a range of industries and career stages.

School students were very interested in her work “testing flavours that go into food and drinks” and she found the whole experience rewarding, fun and flexible enough to fit in around her work schedule.

“The activity allowed students to understand the diversity of science in relation to its job routes, industries and education.

Flexible time commitment
As a technician at Kerry Ingredients, Jess works alternating day and night shifts. “Fitting the I’m a Scientist activity around my job was fortunately quite a success,” she says, “I was able to fit the live chats around my shift pattern.”

Questions from the students were sent to Jess for her to answer as and when she found the time, and this meant that even if she couldn’t make a live chat with a class she’d still be able to answer their questions about her work.

Different entry points to science
By chatting to the students about her education and career path, Jess felt she was able to open their eyes to entry routes to science that they might not have considered previously.

“A lot of students might have thought you had to study plenty before becoming a ‘scientist’,” says Jess, “but in reality you can choose to study for a Bachelor’s degree and work your way up from there.”

“I think the activity allowed students to understand the diversity of science in relation to its job routes, industries and also education,” Jess comments. “If you’re on the fence about whether to take part in the next I’m a Scientist, just go for it!”

If you work in a technical role and want to take part in a future I’m a Scientist event, apply now at imascientist.ie/signup/c, or contact support@imascientist.ie for more information.