Elementary students participated in the first round of the Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Fair at DIS on Nov. 9. After a long day of judging, four nominated winners, fourth-graders Arthur Silva and Stella Park, and fifth-graders Daniel Kim and Gaby Kim, progressed to the SKAC finals at Gyeongnam International Foreign School (GIFS) on Nov. 29.

The competitive yet lively atmosphere allowed students to broaden their scientific knowledge and build camaraderie among SKAC schools, especially with the entertaining events GIFS prepared for the young mindmasters. 

“I didn’t know that there were a lot of international schools across Korea, and it was pretty fun with the activities. There was a game where you bounce ping pong balls and try to shoot them into a mini cup. There was an airplane flying competition,” fifth-grader Daniel Kim said. 

Many young learners dedicated significant efforts to the contest, and their commitment certainly paid off. Among the four finalists, fifth-grader Daniel Kim secured third place in the Grade Five division, while fourth-grader Stella Park claimed first place in the Grade Four division.

“I was startled that I got picked for first place and also amazed. My project did not work at all. I didn’t show [the water fountain] working. I think I wrote my journal and I did my presentation well. I think that is where I got most of my points,” gold medalist Stella Park said.

Proud champions returned home with medals in hand. The experience served as a stepping stone toward a prospective future in the STEM field.

Gallery • 23 Photos

Jackson Chiang

A cosmic-themed project grabs the eyes of third-graders Belle Kim and Raina Kang. They dive deeper into the mysteries of the universe.