Science in the Attic: How a Teenager from Piła is Conquering the World of Science
In a world where youth is often associated with carefree fun and thoughtless social media use, Zuzanna Kassner from Piła emerges as a fascinating phenomenon. This 17-year-old student from the Maria Skłodowska-Curie High School No. 1 not only breaks stereotypes but also sets new standards in the field of science and research.
Zuzia, as her loved ones call her, has shown an extraordinary interest in the natural world since childhood. “My family has always lived close to nature – we were often in the forest, and we spent summers camping. I think that’s why I became so passionate about nature,” the teenager recalls. It is this passion, nurtured by her family, that led her down the path of science, which she pursues with remarkable determination.
A Lab in the Attic? Why Not!
Zuzia doesn’t wait for someone to give her a chance to conduct research – she creates those opportunities herself. In her home attic, she set up a small laboratory where she investigates the effect of chitosan nanoparticles on plant development in challenging conditions, especially with limited water resources. This isn’t science fiction; it’s the reality of a teenager from Piła whose research could have applications in future space missions as well as in agriculture on Earth in the face of ongoing climate change.
Cosmic Dreams and Earthly Successes
Although Zuzia doesn’t plan to become an astronaut, space is an important point of reference for her. She recently became a laureate of the prestigious The Al Worden “Endeavour” Scholarship, which opened the door for her to participate in training at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville.
“Above all, I wanted to learn about the space industry from an engineering and practical perspective. I definitely succeeded in that,” she says with enthusiasm.
But that’s not all. Zuzia is also a finalist in the global Rise for the World competition, placing her among the top 500 students worldwide. She is a scholarship recipient of the Rafał Brzoska Foundation and the National Children’s Fund. Her research has been qualified for the Explory young researchers’ competition.
A Future Without Limits
Despite numerous successes, Zuzia remains modest and open to new challenges. She plans to study abroad, considering universities such as Harvard, Cornell, and Cambridge. “I would very much like to further develop my current research on nanoparticles in botany under more professional conditions, to be able to implement my project on a larger scale,” she says with passion.
Interestingly, Zuzia doesn’t limit herself to science. She paints, draws, practices yoga, and even… trains in longboard dancing. This proves that a true scientist can find balance between intense work and relaxation.
Zuzia Kassner is not only the hope of Polish science but also an inspiration for her peers. She shows that dreams, hard work, and passion can take you truly far – even if you start with a small laboratory in the attic.
Interview with Zuzanna Kassner
We invite you to read a fascinating interview we conducted with Zuzia. This remarkable 17-year-old from Piła talks about her scientific research, cosmic dreams, and future plans. Get to know this young scientist who proves that passion and determination can move mountains – or in this case, lead to groundbreaking discoveries in a home attic.
What influence did your family and the environment you grew up in have on your interests?
Zuzanna: My family has always lived close to nature – we were often in the forest, and we spent summers camping. I think that’s why I became so passionate about nature. Additionally, the adults around me – my parents, grandmother, teachers – always strongly supported my creative plans and ideas, which gave me a certain sense of agency.
What has your education been like so far? Were you always a top student?
Zuzanna: As long as I can remember, I always stood out a bit from the group. I often got bored in class and was ahead of my peers; learning came very easily to me. I had the label of a “walking encyclopedia.” Fortunately, in primary school, I met wonderful teachers who were able to notice my interest in science and guide my development.
Besides science, what are your passions and hobbies? How do you like to spend your free time?
Zuzanna: I love art. I paint and draw because it gives me a certain escape from constantly analyzing complex problems. Besides that, I enjoy long walks and yoga.
Do you have any unusual interests that few people know about?
Zuzanna: I guess few people, looking at me, would expect that I train in longboard dancing.
What is your favorite movie, book, or fictional character, and why?
Zuzanna: I have many books that I really like and would recommend to everyone, but one special series that has been with me since childhood is “Anne of Green Gables.” Simply put, that peaceful atmosphere combined with the characters’ emotions is like a blanket you can wrap yourself in.
If you could have any talent or superpower, what would it be?
Zuzanna: I would definitely want the power of invisibility, so I could sometimes switch off and observe various situations or the natural environment without actively participating in them.
If you could go back in time, what advice would you give your younger self?
Zuzanna: I would tell my younger self not to worry about what others think and to bravely trot towards what she’s passionate about.
How do you envision yourself in 10 years – both personally and professionally?
Zuzanna: In 10 years, I see myself as a researcher implementing new biological solutions, perhaps managing a team or an entire laboratory. Personally – I would like to live somewhere close to nature with a loved one.
Which area of biology fascinates you the most and why?
Zuzanna: There are several areas of biology that particularly excite me. Astrobiology is exceptionally interesting because it combines my passion for living organisms and space. Plant physiology is great because its applications and new solutions can help solve many global problems, such as the food shortage crisis or the issue of decreasing biodiversity. Biotechnology is developing at a very rapid pace, and I am fascinated by the mechanisms used within it. What’s inspiring about it is that completely new methods often emerge, which no one would have thought of before. In an ideal career, I would like to combine all these areas.
Do you have any experience with laboratory work or biological research already?
Zuzanna: I have visited and worked in several scientific institutions in Poland. At the Institute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences, I was involved in the synthesis of silver nanowires, which inspired me to use nanotechnology in my own research. I also had the opportunity to observe and participate in the work of several laboratories at the Medical University of Gdańsk, where I learned techniques used in research on stem cells, the immune system, and the nervous system. Additionally, I conduct my own research on the application of nanoparticles in making plants resistant to stress conditions. I carry out these studies in a laboratory set up in my home attic, where I perform all chemical reactions and take measurements on plants.
If you could conduct one groundbreaking biological experiment, what would it be?
Zuzanna: I would like to send plantations of nanoparticle-supported plants to the International Space Station and collect data on their resistance to those specific and difficult conditions.
Do you already have an idea of what topic you would like to explore in your scientific work in the future?
Zuzanna: I have a lot (maybe a bit too many) ideas about what I’d like to research, and I’m still not sure which direction I’ll take. Currently, I strongly want to link my career to the impact of nanotechnological solutions on microorganisms and plants in extreme environmental conditions. On the other hand, a path related to environmental biology – conducting field observations and experiments in the context of entire ecosystems and their survival in changing conditions, such as climate – also seems equally interesting.
Is there a famous microbiologist whose work particularly inspires you?
Zuzanna: Perhaps not so much a biologist, but a female biologist – Jennifer Doudna. This Nobel laureate, specializing in molecular biology, is behind the development and advancement of the CRISPR biotechnological method. She is an incredibly inspiring figure, and I would like to achieve a similar impact on science someday.
What advice would you give to other young people who want to start an adventure with astrobiology?
Zuzanna: To anyone interested in astrobiology, I would recommend delving into literature related to the topic, as well as taking an interest in the microbiology of extremophiles. It might be a niche field of biology in some ways, but it offers many exciting opportunities for research, discoveries, and applications.
What were your expectations for the NASA training? What did you learn there?
Zuzanna: Above all, I wanted to learn about the space industry from an engineering and practical perspective. I definitely succeeded in that. The U.S. Space and Rocket Center was the cradle of the American space program, so I could engage with both the history of these powerful technological solutions and with living science. I learned about the realities of astronauts’ work and life, as well as the technological solutions behind sending people into space. Additionally, I forged many new international connections with other young enthusiasts of STEM fields. All of this is an invaluable step forward in my development, both scientific and personal.
When did you decide you wanted to study abroad? What was the main factor that led you to consider this option?
Zuzanna: I think it was halfway through my first year of high school. I was at a science camp organized by the National Children’s Fund, of which I am a scholarship recipient, and I talked with many other people my age who were involved in various social and scientific projects. We discussed planned educational paths, and a few people told me about studying abroad. I decided that it might be a good option for me to consider.
Which universities in the UK or USA are you particularly interested in and why? Do you have any favorites yet?
Zuzanna: In the USA, my favorites are Harvard and Cornell, and in the UK – Cambridge. All these universities have top-tier laboratories with significant achievements in the application of nanotechnology in plant physiology, and they also have friendly locations, which is very important to me. Learn more about these universities: How to Get into Harvard? | Studying at Cornell University | Studying at Cambridge University – A Guide
What criteria do you base your university choice on? What is most important to you – the curriculum, reputation, location, or something else?
Zuzanna: There are several very important criteria for me when choosing a university. The curriculum, educational offerings, and research teams, as well as the laboratories and their equipment, are definitely the primary factors in making a decision. Additionally, a location close to nature, with good flight connections and in a climate zone similar to Central-Northern Europe, are important aspects for my comfort. In third place, I consider the academic community of the given institution.
How do you assess your chances of getting into your dream universities? Do you already have any achievements that might increase your chances?
Zuzanna: Besides being a laureate of The Endeavour Scholarship and representing Poland at NASA training, I have several other significant achievements. I am currently a finalist in the global Rise for the World competition, meaning I am among the top 500 students worldwide. Additionally, I conduct my own research, which this year was accredited for the Explory young researchers’ competition. I am also a scholarship recipient of the Rafał Brzoska Foundation and the National Children’s Fund. I think these successes, combined with various scientific and social activities I’m involved in, give me quite good chances of getting into my dream universities.
If you are also considering studying abroad, check out our comprehensive guide to studying abroad and learn how to build an applicant profile through extracurricular activities.
What do you see as the biggest challenges associated with studying abroad, both academic and personal?
Zuzanna: Regarding the challenges of studying abroad, the most difficult aspect seems to be living in a new country, far from loved ones, and adapting to a new culture and way of life. Academically, I don’t anticipate major problems, perhaps apart from catching up on the professional vocabulary related to specific scientific fields.
Do you already have an idea of what research projects you would like to work on during your studies?
Zuzanna: I would very much like to further develop my current research on nanoparticles in botany under more professional conditions, to be able to implement my project on a larger scale.
How did your family and friends react to your decision to study abroad?
Zuzanna: At first, everyone was surprised, and it took a while for them to get used to the idea. We realize it will be a challenge, but I feel that my loved ones are with me and support me regardless of my educational choices.
What are your plans for the future after graduation? Would you like to return to Poland, or perhaps pursue a career abroad?
Zuzanna: Honestly – I don’t know how my career will unfold. I don’t plan details that far in advance, to leave myself room for exploration. Who knows what the situation in the world, in Poland, or my personal life will look like in 5 years? I only know that I will follow the opportunities that inspire and excite me the most.
Dreaming of studying at top universities, just like Zuzia? The College Council team supports ambitious students at every stage of applying to international universities – from building an applicant profile and choosing universities, through exam preparation (SAT, IELTS), to application essays and cover letters. Prepare for the SAT exam with Prepclass.io – a platform tailored to the needs of Polish students.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Zuzanna Kassner?
Zuzanna Kassner is a young Polish scientist from Piła, a student at the Maria Skłodowska-Curie High School No. 1. She conducts her own research on the application of chitosan nanoparticles in making plants resistant to stress conditions. She is a laureate of the prestigious The Al Worden “Endeavour” Scholarship, a finalist of Rise for the World (top 500 students worldwide), and a scholarship recipient of the Rafał Brzoska Foundation and the National Children’s Fund.
Which international universities is Zuzanna Kassner applying to?
Zuzia is considering studying at Harvard, Cornell (USA), and Cambridge (United Kingdom). Her choice of these universities is primarily dictated by their achievements in the field of nanotechnology in plant physiology, as well as their favorable locations and strong academic communities.
What does Zuzanna Kassner research?
Zuzia investigates the effect of chitosan nanoparticles on plant development in challenging conditions, especially with limited water resources. She conducts her research in a laboratory set up in her home attic. Her work has potential applications in future space missions as well as in agriculture on Earth in the face of climate change.
How can a young student prepare for applications to international universities?
Key elements include: building an academic profile (academic olympiads, competitions, personal research projects), developing extracurricular activities, gaining international experience, taking required exams (e.g., SAT, IELTS/TOEFL), and preparing strong application essays. It is advisable to start preparations as early as the first year of high school and seek professional support, such as from College Council.
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