This is the last day of what has been an unforgettable European adventure. I leave this trip with friendships that I am certain will last a lifetime, and a passion for fields of science that I never knew existed prior to the forum. I have made so many connections from all over the world, and I have learned so much about both the science and the people that make our planet what it is. Every opportunity that I have had here has been a memorable one.
I want to give an extra special thank you to everyone back home at UFV who made this trip a possibility. In particular, to Janice Nagtegaal, who sought me out after I was convinced that I was not going to apply for LIYSF this year. I also want to thank Carmen Herman for being a phenomenal reference (as always!), and James Bedard for granting me my first research opportunity, and encouraging me to apply. Another massive thank you goes to Jeff Chizma, for his constant encouragement, and all of the time that he put aside to help me with my presentation. And finally, to all of the faculty members, staff, and students that have impacted my university career, and helped to shape the student that I am today.
I felt so proud to say that I am from the University of the Fraser Valley while attending the London International Youth Science Forum. Although it is hard to leave, I am so grateful for everything that I have experienced over the past three weeks, and cannot wait to be back at UFV in September.
Isabelle St-Martin
August 13 2019