Isabelle Walters – Year 11
Welcome to the first edition of The Bell for 2022. Our theme for this edition is “Bank”, but we are not talking about your traditional “Big 4 Banks” or financial institutes. Instead, each submission focuses on preservation and conservation in its varied forms. Recently, I had the privilege of working with the incredible women at the “Brain and Mind Research Centre at Sydney University. At the forefront of their ground-breaking research in Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s neurodegenerative brain disorders is their determination and passion to preserve the functions of the human brain. At the heart of their research is a steadfast desire to relieve those in need. Of their many endeavours the most prominent include an ongoing study into what various genetic cases of Alzheimer’s could mean for the future of treatment, advancement in quantitative methods for diagnosis of neurodegenerative diseases, and progressing the simplification of invasive diagnostic procedures such as spinal taps to allow a better, more positive treatment process for those already facing difficult circumstances. These experiences prompt us to reflect on themes such as preservation as they touch many aspects of our lives. Throughout this edition, we explore the expansive viewpoints of those from our College as they give insight into what preservation means to us. The team that I worked with are some of the most brilliant neuroscientific minds in the world, and yet they are humble and thoughtful, and made a Year 11 student feel like part of their family without a second thought. And on that note, I want to leave you with the encouragement to seek out the many pathways of preservation. Look into ways of nurturing your local environment, talk to family members about your culture. Most importantly, spend time with those closest to you, create memories and record them so that they may be preserved for future generations. Thank you to the editorial team, artists, students, and teachers who have contributed to this edition of The Bell and for making it possible to launch our first edition for 2022. We hope that you enjoy this edition and thank you for your support as we publish future editions.