Midland ISD student to attend International Science School in Australia
24 Feb 2025
Feature, News, Aerospace
February 25, 2025 — Yuki Soda, a junior at Legacy High School, has been selected to attend the International Science School (ISS) in Australia this summer. This program brings together approximately 150 students from around the world every other year to engage in advanced STEM learning experiences. Yuki is one of only five students from the United States chosen for this opportunity, selected through Higher Orbits’ Go For Launch! program.
Yuki’s passion for space and engineering began in eighth grade when his science teacher encouraged him to participate in Go For Launch! Since then, he has participated three times, further developing his interest in STEM fields and space-related opportunities. Go For Launch!, supported by the Midland Development Corporation and Chevron, provides students with opportunities to develop teamwork, problem-solving, and innovative thinking skills to solve real-world aerospace challenges.
Yuki decided to apply for ISS after speaking to LHS alumna Brianna Ortiz, who was selected for the program in 2023. The rigorous application process required Yuki to submit four letters of recommendation and complete six essays outlining his interests and inspirations.
"I'm looking forward to meeting students from around the world, engaging in enhanced academic experiences, and having the chance to interact with experts who lead the program’s lectures," Yuki said.
ISS is a program of the University of Sydney that provides students with the opportunity to collaborate with peers on scientific projects, attend lectures from distinguished scientists, and participate in hands-on STEM activities.
Yuki, who also runs a side business as a photographer and serves as editor in chief of the student newspaper, is eager to apply the knowledge gained from this experience to his future studies. He plans to pursue an undergraduate degree in a STEM field and is considering a law degree that would allow him to integrate his engineering expertise into legal applications.
Yuki will leave for his three-week adventure in Australia July 2.
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