Ballina student shines at international Space Camp

BALLINA Coast High School student Olivia Van Zwieten has returned from the USA after attending the prestigious Space Camp, where she was one of six international participants.

Olivia attended the Advanced Space Academy at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama, as part of a group of 96 students aged 16 to 18.

The week-long camp offered hands-on activities like astronaut training simulations, rocket building and operating simulators.

“I was inspired to go to Space Camp as it would be an amazing experience going into the space field,” Olivia said.

“When I found out I was able to attend, I was over the moon (no pun intended).”

One of the most challenging activities Olivia faced was designing and building a miniature rocket.

“I overcame this with teamwork and creative ideas,” she said.

Her time at Space Camp deepened her interest in science, especially in astrobiology and astrochemistry.

“The Space Camp experience influenced my passion for science by deepening my understanding for the space industry by seminars and various activities,” Olivia said.

After completing high school, Olivia hopes to study astrobiology and astrochemistry and eventually train as an astronaut.

Her chemistry teacher, Averil Waite, praised Olivia’s dedication.

“Olivia is a fantastic student who exceeds everyone’s expectations both academically and as a good human,” Ms Waite said.

Olivia shared her Space Camp journey with the community during Science Week at the Ballina Library Social Circle, where she encouraged others to follow their dreams.

“Always follow your dreams and study hard. The sky is not your limit,” she said.