Girl Power in Engineering and IT

Inspire your female students about the exciting possibilities of Engineering and IT through our Girl Power program, including a three-night camp at the University of Melbourne, work experience and mentoring opportunities.

About the program

Stage 1: Year 9 students

Commencing in Year 9, approximately 40 students are selected to participate in the camp during the July term holidays, where they will have the opportunity to:

• Learn about careers in engineering and IT
• Participate in hands-on interactive workshops
• Interact with University of Melbourne engineering and IT students
• Hear from industry and our academic staff about engineering and IT issues
• Form a network of like-minded individuals

Stage 2: Year 10 students

In the second stage of the program, Year 10 students will have the opportunity to complete the Faculty of Science work experience program and can choose from a range of disciplines including engineering and IT. This week is the final week of Term 2. Students applying for Girl Power should check with their schools to see if this date is suitable for their work experience program.

Stage 3: Year 11 & 12 students

The final stage of the program facilitates mentoring opportunities between Year 11 and 12 students, and University of Melbourne engineering and IT students.

Camp details

The camp will run for Year 9: Sunday 2 July to Wednesday 5 July 2023.

• The program is free of charge and will include accommodation, all meals and workshops during the camp.
• Accommodation will be at a residential college at the University of Melbourne.
• Dietary requirements will be catered for and students will need to provide this information as part of the application process.

Application process

Approximately 40 female students will be selected to participate in the program in 2023. To participate in the subsequent stages of the program, students must have participated in the Girl Power in Engineering and IT camp whilst in Year 9.

• All applications need to be submitted online. Applications close 5pm 17 April, 2023
• The program is open only to students in Year 9 in 2023.
• Student applications will be reviewed and short telephone interviews will be conducted for those shortlisted (these can be conducted with a guardian, parent or teacher present with the student).
• Shortlisted candidates will need to supply a letter of support from their school principal supporting their application.
• Successful applicants will be notified in May 2023.

Applicants will be asked to address the following selection criteria:

1. A keen interest in maths and science with a desire to explore engineering or IT as a career.
2. Well-developed communication and relationship building skills which will enable you to act as an ambassador for STEM and for the Girl Power program at your School (if selected, the student will be asked to demonstrate evidence of their initiative to the University).
3. Strong critical thinking skills, with an ability to see and describe the importance of science, technology, engineering and mathematics to society.
4. Demonstrated experience working collaboratively as part of a team.
5. Ability to use initiative and be self-motivated and driven.
6. Ability to demonstrate a broad range of interests and involvement in extracurricular activities.
7. Proven leadership skills. Being part of an established network (i.e. school clubs, teams) that you are willing to share ideas with.

Applicants will need to upload a letter of reference from their school principal or delegate. The delegate will need to address the following:

• Why are you recommending this student?
• What is your relationship with this student?
• How long have you known this student?
• How do you think this student will benefit from the program over other students?
• Can you give an example of when this student has demonstrated an interest in STEM ?

Contact us

Recruitment Coordinator
schoolsengagement-engit@unimelb.edu.au