A day in the life of a neuroscientist - Chloe Yu

My name is Chloe, I’m 15, and a Year 11 student at Rangi Ruru Girls’ School. What I care most about in my life is to make a meaningful impact and difference in our world. At school, my favourite subjects are maths, art, and science.

My passion for science stems from its ability to explore the mysteries of this world and beyond. Take the brain for example, an organ we know so much about yet still understand so little. Receiving the opportunity to experience "A Day in the Life of a Neuroscientist" was both humbling and inspiring.

As I walked through various labs researching topics such as neurodegenerative diseases and memory, I was struck by all the groundbreaking discoveries. Meeting and connecting with researchers and students who shared the same passion as me further enhanced my love for neuroscience and the potential of it. An incredible moment during my time there was learning about synaptic plasticity—the brain’s ability to reshape and rewire itself. This concept fascinated me, reinforcing the endless possibilities that exist in this field and how much more we have to learn.

The main highlight of the day was the visit to the anatomy museum towards the end. This was where we got to explore man-made and real anatomical models, including preserved cadavers. Seeing the human body in such intricate detail brought my understanding of the connection between the brain and the rest of the body to life.

In five years’ time I hope to be in med school, well on the path to becoming a neurosurgeon, driven by the desire to push the boundaries of brain science and surgery. This experience solidified my commitment to making a real difference in people’s lives. The brain’s complexity, resilience, and capacity for change inspire me to contribute to a future where brain diseases are not just treated, but cured.

Chloe Yu, Rangi Ruru Girls’ School