MSLETB is proud to celebrate the achievements of one of our talented Aadila Iyamah from St. Patrick’s College, Lacken Cross, Co. Mayo. who recently participated in the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition. Representing her school and local community, she embarked on a journey of research, innovation, and discovery. In this article, she shares her experience and what partaking in this competition meant for her.
My First BT Young Scientist Experience
Competing in the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition (BTYSTE) was an unforgettable experience. It marked many firsts for me—it was my first year in Ireland, my first time participating in BTYSTE, and the first time in years my school had an entry. Although I didn’t win an award, the journey itself was incredibly enlightening, filled with learning, growth, and invaluable support from people around me.
I could sense the excitement and energy in the air as soon as I entered the RDS. Hundreds of students from all around Ireland had come together, each showcasing their own creative projects and original ideas. Seeing like-minded individuals of age groups working together to solve practical issues and use science and technology to change the world was encouraging. I was amazed by the diversity of ideas as I walked around the projects. They ranged from innovative technical solutions to ground-breaking medical research.
For me, one of the most rewarding parts of the competition was the opportunity to present my project to the judges and visitors. It pushed me out of my comfort zone, helping me develop confidence in explaining my ideas and answering challenging questions. The feedback I received from judges was insightful, offering me a new perspective on my work and areas for improvement. I learned that science is not just about having a great idea but also about communicating it effectively and continuously refining it.
Beyond the competition itself, the atmosphere of BTYSTE was something special. It wasn’t just about winning—it was about sharing knowledge, learning from others, and being part of a community that values curiosity and innovation. I met students who shared my passion for STEM, made connections with industry professionals, and even had the chance to hear from inspiring guest speakers. It was an environment that encouraged collaboration, not just competition.
One of the biggest takeaways from this experience was the unwavering support I received. My teachers, friends, and family all believed in me, and that encouragement meant the world. Knowing that my school was proud of me, especially since it had been a long time since they had an entry, made the experience even more meaningful.
Although I didn’t take home a prize, I walked away with something far more valuable—knowledge, confidence, and motivation to keep pushing forward. BTYSTE has reinforced my passion for science and technology, and I now see it as just the beginning of a much bigger journey. I’m excited to build on what I’ve learned and hopefully return in the future with an even stronger project.
To anyone considering entering the BT Young Scientist competition, I’d say go for it! It’s not just about winning—it’s about the experience, the growth, and the people you meet along the way. Science is all about discovery, and sometimes, the most valuable discoveries are the ones we make about ourselves.
Aadila Iyamah St Patrick’s College, Lackencross.
