Wow! What an experience! I’m a Scientist: Get me out of here! has really made me think about science in a completely different way. I know we were supposed to be inspiring you students but by doing that I have also inspired myself to continue with science outreach. It’s important you get to see where science can take you, and that you’re not just doing it for the sake of passing your exams or something. We don’t all have crazy hair and glasses, wear lab coats all day and smell funny!

My mind was blown by the huge variety of the questions thrown my way. I had to work really hard but I’m so glad I did. Some of the questions were so imaginative — I think we start to lose that sort of freedom as we get older so it was refreshing to see it again. You also help us to really think about the bigger picture (like “why do volcanoes erupt”) and how our specialised work can benefit society. In that respect, I hope you enjoyed my volcano-eyed-view of the world of science.

I must say a HUGE thank-you to all the students that took part. Without you guys this wouldn’t be possible, so keep that enthusiasm flowing! I can’t begin to imagine what it was like in class while you were doing this so I think a BIG thank you is also due for your teachers. Then of course a MASSIVE thank you to the I’m a Scientist team of moderators and organisers.

I hope you all enjoyed the event and had as much fun as I did. I’m very happy to have won and I’m looking forward to holding some ‘Volcano Days’ and building some experiments to explode!

Thanks again for taking part and voting me your winner! Maybe I’ll meet some of you in person one day. Who knows?

Cheers,

James