Hugo Brown would like to make a career in science and use his skills in chemistry – possibly in the agricultural sector.
The 17-year-old year 13 student at St Paul’s Collegiate in Hamilton has won a place in the New Zealand team to the 2015 International Chemistry Olympiad in Azerbaijan.
After hearing about the olympiad from his my chemistry teacher, Brown sat an initial test and was picked as a member of the national training group of 90.
H in science and use He took part in a special chemistry coaching camp in Auckland in April which was supported by Auckland University and earned his way into the national squad of four along with two students from Auckland, one from Invercargill.
Azerbaijan is a former soviet block republic bordered by Iran, Georgia and Turkey. The international competition will include a five hour theory exam followed by five hours of practice.
From a farming family near Opotiki, Brown is considering his future career options and may use his skills in science and chemistry in the agricultural sector.
Brown’s chemistry teacher Dr Jason McGrath said it was almost impossible to overstate the significance of Brown’s selection in the New Zealand chemistry olympiad team.
‘‘The selection process is rigorous and goes well beyond the standard curriculum. ’’ Brown finished his NCEA studies a year early after completing levels two and three, both with excellence, in 2014. He also passed his scholarship exams with outstanding endorsement.
