What are the Trailblazer Awards?
The Trailblazer Awards celebrates Year 11 and Year 12 students beyond their ATAR, recognising those who have overcome personal challenges and used their final year of school to positively impact their community.
Our Trailblazers will have the opportunity to build their personal brand and profile as a future leader, learn how to successfully apply for Early Entry, Scholarships, Co-Op, and Cadetships Opportunities, and so much more!
Find out how Imogen navigated her senior schooling differently throughout 2023!
Introducing: Imogen Kleidon
Category: Science & Technology
School: The Glennie School
State: QLD
Career Aspiration: Healthcare focusing on rural medicine and supporting rural communities
Achievements
- Participated in SPARQ-ed, a research program offered by the University of Queensland and the Department of Education.
- Worked on a research project at the Translational Research Institute, investigating respiratory infection in the ageing population.
- Presented findings to a lecture theatre of PhD students and medical researchers.
- Contributed to real-world research papers and projects through the SPARQ-ed program.
- Engaged in various leadership roles, including TIP leader, Tour Ambassador, and UQ Science Ambassador.
- Participated in STEM competitions and programs, such as the Darling Downs Maths Team Challenge and Optiminds.
What makes Imogen a Trailblazer?
Imogen is a Trailblazer in the field of Science & Technology. As a Year 12 student at The Glennie School, she has already made significant strides towards achieving her career goal of working in healthcare, with a focus on rural medicine and supporting rural communities.
Imogen’s remarkable journey began with her participation in the SPARQ-ed program, a research opportunity provided by the University of Queensland and the Department of Education. During the program, she spent a week at the Translational Research Institute, where she worked on a research project focused on respiratory infection in the ageing population. Collaborating with like-minded students from across Queensland and receiving guidance from PhD students and medical researchers, Imogen delved into laboratory work and data analysis. Her dedication and hard work culminated in presenting their findings to a lecture theatre filled with esteemed professionals.
What sets Imogen apart as a trailblazer is not only her involvement in cutting-edge research but also her contributions to real-world applications. The data she gathered during the SPARQ-ed program became part of Dr Yunis’ laboratory, contributing to real research papers and projects. Imogen’s participation not only advanced her own scientific skills but also enabled three PhD students to develop their tutoring and lecturing abilities, creating a ripple effect of knowledge and growth.
Throughout the SPARQ-ed program, Imogen honed her teamwork and communication skills, working alongside passionate and dedicated peers. This experience differed from regular school group projects, as everyone actively contributed and shared responsibilities. By the end of the program, Imogen emerged with invaluable skills that will serve her well in future collaborative endeavours.
Imogen’s determination and resilience were tested during Term 3 of Year 11 when she faced personal challenges and uncertainties. Despite the stress caused by changes in her family and the possibility of changing schools, she persevered and successfully navigated her exams. Her ability to overcome obstacles with grace and determination demonstrates her unwavering commitment to her academic pursuits.
Beyond her academic achievements, Imogen has shown exceptional leadership and community involvement. As a TIP leader, she mentored incoming Year 7 students, guiding them through their first year of schooling. As a Tour Ambassador, she conducted personalised school tours, showcasing the educational opportunities at The Glennie School. Additionally, Imogen served as a UQ Science Ambassador, promoting STEM within her school and wider community.
Imogen’s dedication extends beyond the classroom. She has participated in various STEM-related competitions and programs, including the Darling Downs Maths Team Challenge and Optiminds. Furthermore, she actively contributes to her school community as a member of the Academic and Service committees, providing academic advice, organising events, and raising funds for charitable causes. Imogen’s commitment to service and leadership exemplifies her desire to make a positive impact on those around her.
To gain practical experience in the healthcare field, Imogen completed work experience at Queensland X-Ray. There, she developed essential patient-provider interaction skills and gained exposure to different areas of radiography. Imogen’s commitment to learning and expanding her knowledge led to an offer to spend time with her local chiropractor during the upcoming school holidays.
Imogen’s passion for science and technology, coupled with her dedication to rural medicine and community support, positions her as an inspiring trailblazer. Her involvement in the SPARQ-ed program and real-world research demonstrates her commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and making a tangible impact. Imogen’s leadership roles, participation in STEM competitions, and engagement in service initiatives underscore her well-rounded approach to education. With her perseverance, compassion, and determination to uplift rural communities, Imogen is undoubtedly one of our Top 50 Trailblazers!
The Top 50 Year 11 and Year 12 Trailblazer Awards
The Trailblazer Awards aim to identify and celebrate students who use their final years of school to invest holistically in the skills and experiences that will maximise their own future opportunities and make a contribution to the future of our society.
Our winners for the Year 11 and Year 12 Trailblazer Awards have demonstrated initiative in volunteering for their school or community, have participated in co-curricular activities, and have held leadership positions within their schools.
Learn more about who placed in the Top 50 Year 11 and Year 12 Trailblazers here!
About Art of Smart Education
At Art of Smart Education, we’re an award-winning provider of holistic tutoring and mentoring for students in years K-12. Our mission is to help students answer the difficult question, “What am I going to do with my life when I finish school, and how do I get there?”
We understand that true success involves mastering study, career and leadership skills while maintaining your wellbeing, not just excelling in academics and as a result, over the last decade, we’ve supported over 10,000 students to achieve their best and maximise their options for life after school.
Each year over one million young Australians, parents, and teachers access our guides, videos and resources to navigate the journey through high school.
