In Conversation with Neomi Verma: A Different Way to Learn

Published on the 29th of January 2026

Since the 1990s, GERRIC Student Programs have created learning environments designed to extend students’ thinking, spark curiosity, and nurture advanced abilities.

As Neomi Verma prepares to enter Year 11 and returns to UNSW to take part in this year’s programs, her experience goes beyond learning new content. Instead, it reflects the value of finding a space that supports the way she thinks and connects. We sat down with Neomi to talk about what’s kept her coming back, the moments that have stayed with her, and how the GERRIC Student Programs influence the way she approaches school and what comes next.

Neomi, thanks for speaking with us. You first came to GERRIC Student Programs when you were in primary school.

What’s made you keep coming back?

At first, it was because I thought the programs sounded different from school and I was curious. I really enjoyed it and made friends who liked learning the way I do, so I decided I wanted to go again. I also like that the workshops cover things you don’t usually learn at school. Because they run during the school holidays, it feels like a chance to explore different ideas and learn something new without the pressure of regular classes.

Do you remember how you felt that first time compared to now?

I was definitely more nervous at the start because I didn’t really know what to expect. But I realised pretty quickly that it was a really positive environment. Coming back now, I feel more excited than nervous because I’m more familiar with how the programs run. I’m doing The Brain in Health and Disease with UNSW Emeritus Professor Kenneth Ashwell this time, and because I like learning about anatomy in general, it ties into my interests, which makes the experience even more exciting.

What do you think the GERRIC Student Programs offer that school doesn’t always?

Probably the level of interaction. The teachers explain things really well, but they also encourage everyone to share ideas. Because the groups are smaller, it’s easier to ask questions and actually go deeper into things you care about. You also get access to facilities school doesn’t usually have, like going into an anatomy lab, which is really cool.

Was there a moment that really stuck with you?

During one workshop, what really stood out was how the teacher sat with us and joined in. They were chatting with us, doing the activities alongside us, and sharing ideas, which felt really different from my experiences at school. I just thought it was really cool. I remember laughing a lot and having a really good time, and it made everything feel more relaxed and like we were learning together.

What have you learned about yourself through coming to the programs?

I’ve probably learned the most about my own learning style. Being here gives you the chance to explore what actually works for you. I’ve realised I learn better through more hands-on activities and being able to ask questions more often, which helped me understand what kinds of explanations really help me learn. It also feels like a really safe environment to explore that.

It’s also changed how I feel about English. In primary school and early high school, I didn’t really enjoy it because of how structured it was. But after doing a writing-focused program that explored the nuances of expressing yourself, I realised writing could be more creative and abstract than what we usually do at school. That experience helped me start writing for myself and for fun, which I wouldn’t have considered based on my school experience alone.

What’s it been like being around other students who share your interests?

It’s been really good. Everyone here has chosen to be here, and that shows. You can talk about things that aren’t usually taught at school, and people actually understand what you’re talking about, which is a really nice feeling. And outside of class, it’s just fun meeting new people.

Have you taken anything from GERRIC Student Programs back into school or your own projects?

Definitely. It’s made me more confident taking initiative with my learning. Because it feels less intimidating here, I’m more comfortable asking questions when I go back to school. The content is also pretty advanced, which helps you work out what you want to learn more about. That’s been especially helpful for me, because I like doing science research on my own, and learning complex topics with an expert first makes it a lot easier than starting from scratch.

If you had to explain GERRIC Student Programs to another student your age, what would you say it’s really about?

I’d say it’s about discovering something for yourself. You get to choose what you’re interested in and learn alongside people who care just as much. You also get to hear from experts and see things you wouldn’t normally, which helps you work out whether it’s something you want to keep exploring.

Why do you think opportunities like this matter?

I think a lot of students think they don’t like learning, when really it’s just not taught in a way that works for them. Programs like this help you realise what you’re capable of and build confidence, especially if you’re still figuring out what you’re interested in.

Looking ahead, how do you think this experience might shape what you want to do next?

I’m still not exactly sure, but I know I like public speaking, communication, and science. I’d love to do something that combines those. Learning science beyond what’s taught at school has definitely helped me think about whether that’s something I want to pursue.

Can you see yourself studying at UNSW in the future?

Yeah, definitely! I live in Sydney and have been to campus a few times, and I also did work experience at the UNSW Museum of Human Disease. Getting to explore the campus and experience the uni culture has shown me what studying at UNSW could be like, and it’s something I can see myself doing.

Finally, what would you say to someone thinking about doing the GERRIC Student Programs?

Just do it. It opens opportunities you wouldn’t usually get, and it’s worth it.

Learn more about the GERRIC Student Programs.

Learn more about the UNSW School of Education.

Learn more about ADA Short Courses.