MY TY WEEK:Joshua Desmond (16), Coláiste an Phiarsigh, Glanmire, Co Cork

"LAST MONTH, I spent a week at the Tyndall Institute learning about science research and careers. Students came from as far as Kildare and Mayo from 13 different schools. We were shown around the building, and met PhD students who were doing various different projects, including one on quantum mechanics and another on internet speeds.

“It was an opportunity to experience life on campus and get a taste for what college is all about. I thought it was interesting how people from all different backgrounds, studying for different degrees, all mixed together. It was a real hive of activity, with the student elections adding to the buzz.

“One day, we did circuit making and a workshop in photonics, the study of light, where we had a chance to use lasers. There was a one-day work placement at the Intel plant in Limerick, where we saw how the place operates and how to make and design the chips.

“The highlight was winning the Innovation competition, with a prize of a Flip mini video camcorder. This involved being part of a team and making a presentation on the most innovative ideas and information we learned during the week.

“ Once a week, we do social work in our community, and I spend a few hours helping out at a daycare centre for elderly people. I really enjoy just sitting and chatting with them, playing music or a song.”