North Hills junior 1 of 5 Americans selected to attend International Science School in Australia

A North Hills junior, after a rigorous admissions process, was selected as one of five Americans set to attend the prestigious International Science School at the University of Sydney this summer.

Raine Dickinson said she became aware of the school while participating in a program with the STEM nonprofit Higher Orbits. After that, she said she spent her entire winter break crafting essays and gathering references for the lengthy international application — but doubted her chances.

But during an illness a few months later, she said she received the good news.

“I got really sick with the flu. I went down, then my whole family went down, but I got an email saying, ‘Congratulations, you got in,’ ” Dickinson said.

The email cured her, she said.

The school will feature lectures from prominent academics, more hands-on activities and social events such as a gala during a two-week period between July 6-19.

About two-thirds of the 110 students at the International Science School hail from Australia, according to its website. But the couple dozen international students will arrive from China, India, Japan, New Zealand, Thailand, Singapore, the United Kingdom and the United States, the website said.

Dickinson said she is looking forward to meeting students from other nations, especially since most share a common interest in science, technology, engineering and math. And on the weekends, she said she will be free to explore Australia’s largest city.

At the school, she said she hopes the varied activities will help her narrow down a potential college major as she weighs her interests in subjects such as chemistry and physics.

North Hills High School gifted education teacher Barbara Foster said in a statement that Dickinson is no stranger to science activities, having participated in several more local competitions.

“She truly is an amazing young lady,” she said. “This new achievement is not only an honor for her but also for the district.”

As part of her attendance, Dickinson must raise $1,000 to cover costs associated with lodging and school activities. So far, she has raised a little more than $750. Those interested in helping her reach her goal can find the fundraiser at secure.qgiv.com/for/rdmtaissi.