A Last Experiment, A Last Picture: Chemistry, Community, and Lifelong Learning

By Vincenzo Rosario La Franca Pittarresi, Science Teacher

Before donning their lab coats for the last time—though for some, it won’t be the last, as they have chosen to continue in the world of science—my students and I gather outside our laboratory for a picture. This is not just a simple photo; it is a symbol of the journey we have shared. Everything began two years ago for my Diploma Programme students, and for some, even earlier, back when they were in MYP4. This picture is meant to be fun, a lighthearted yet meaningful snapshot that marks the end of one of the most significant chapters of their lives. Soon, they will leave high school behind and embark on university adventures.

I have always told my students that it doesn’t matter what they choose to become or do in life—what truly matters is not being afraid of making mistakes. Mistakes are an essential part of growth, a fundamental element of learning. And what better place to understand this than the laboratory, where trial and error are part of every experiment? Science, like life, is a process of questioning, testing, learning from failures, and improving. Mistakes are not obstacles; they are stepping stones. Each miscalculation, each unexpected result, is an opportunity to refine our understanding and improve our methods. As Albert Einstein once said, “A person who never made a mistake never tried anything new.”

Today, we will conduct a challenging yet fascinating laboratory experience: synthesizing and characterizing aspirin. But before we step into the lab, I want my students to enjoy this moment. Who says you can’t have fun while learning? Education is not just about lessons, homework, and exams. As educators, our role extends far beyond imparting knowledge; we are here to guide students in becoming members of a community. And the first community they genuinely experience is the one they build in the classroom.

High school is not just about academic achievement—it is about relationships, about learning how to collaborate, support, and grow together. When I look at my students joking, laughing, and celebrating each other’s successes, I feel immense joy. I, too, cherish my high school memories. Some of my best friends today are those who sat next to me in class years ago. My best friend, even after 20 years, is still the person who was my deskmate in high school.

This sense of belonging and shared experience plays a crucial role in learning. Students thrive in environments where they feel safe, supported, and valued. The bonds they form with peers and teachers help build confidence and resilience, shaping their ability to approach challenges with determination. Encouraging curiosity, collaboration, and critical thinking allows them to develop skills that extend far beyond the walls of a classroom. By fostering an atmosphere of mutual respect and camaraderie, we help students not only excel in their studies but also grow as individuals who are prepared for the complexities of the real world.

Mistakes, both in science and in life, teach us patience and perseverance. Some of the greatest scientific breakthroughs have come from errors that led to discoveries. In chemistry, an unexpected reaction can open the door to innovation. Similarly, in life, setbacks often reveal new paths we hadn’t considered. The ability to analyze, adapt, and push forward after making a mistake is one of the most valuable skills a student can develop. It is this resilience—the courage to try again, to experiment, to learn from every misstep—that will serve them well, no matter the field they choose.

As I watch my students prepare for their final high school experiment, I realize that this moment is more than just a conclusion—it is a transition, a stepping stone toward new challenges and opportunities. The smiles, the shared jokes, and the excitement of one last experiment together—these are the moments that truly define education.

The future belongs to these young minds, and I am grateful to have been a part of their journey. Their enthusiasm, curiosity, and determination fill me with hope. And so, as we take our final group photo outside the lab, I know that even as they move on, the lessons learned—both in science and in life—will stay with them forever.