UPWr Student Recognized for Success in Olympiads

As the 2nd place laureate in the 52nd Biology Olympiad in the 2022/2023 school year and later the bronze medalist at the 34th International Biology Olympiad in Al Ain, United Arab Emirates, in July 2023, Aleksandra Sznel demonstrated exceptional dedication to the field of biology even during her high school years. Adding to her list of accomplishments, Sznel is also a laureate of the 5th place in the 37th Ecological Knowledge Olympiad and a finalist in the 51st Biology Olympiad in the 2021/2022 school year.

Her fascination with nature and biological sciences began in early childhood when, instead of cartoons, she chose wildlife documentaries and veterinary series on Animal Planet. Since she could ask the question "why?" her passion for science and exploring the mysteries of nature has been a source of immense pleasure for her. Biological Olympiads became not only a challenge for her but also an opportunity to meet interesting people. – In high school, thanks to my biology teacher, I learned about the biology Olympiad and decided to try my hand at it, resulting in meeting many incredibly inspiring people and discovering a slightly different side of biological sciences – says Aleksandra.

Even during high school, Sznel wrote two research papers, acquiring practical laboratory skills and knowledge in bioinformatics, biochemistry, botany, zoology, and microbiology.

Despite being only in her first year of studies, Aleksandra has already gained recognition for her academic achievements. Her future dream is to treat animals, and the scholarship she received as part of the scholarship program is not only an honor but also financial support for the duration of her studies. The scholarship, amounting to 1000 Polish złoty per month for nine months, is awarded in recognition of her exceptional potential and passion for learning, which will undoubtedly serve as a solid foundation for her future academic achievements.

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