My Journey to Medalist Status at the International Chemistry Olympiad (IChO)

Preparing for the International Chemistry Olympiad (IChO) is no small feat, and many aspiring medalists dedicate months, if not years, to honing their skills. This article delves into the process and shared experiences from one of the participants who ended up winning a bronze medal. It covers various aspects of IChO preparation, including intensive study, practice problems, laboratory skills, participation in preparation camps, and self-study.

A Rigorous Preparation Timeline

The path to becoming an IChO medalist is a demanding one. For me, it involved studying advanced chemistry topics for several months to a few years, depending on individual backgrounds and commitments. The preparation includes:

Studying Advanced Topics: This entails delving deeply into high school chemistry, including organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry. Practice Problems: Solving past IChO problems and other challenging chemistry problems is essential for developing problem-solving skills. Laboratory Skills: Gaining hands-on experience in laboratory techniques is crucial, as the competition includes practical components. Joining Preparation Camps: Many countries organize training camps where participants can receive guidance from experienced mentors and participate in mock competitions. Self-Study and Resources: Utilizing textbooks, online courses, and other educational resources to strengthen knowledge.

Arigot, 1985: A Training Camp at the Crossroads

The first step in my journey to the IChO was a one-week training camp in 1985. Only 17 of the best participants from the national Dutch chemistry Olympiad were selected to attend. The camp was an intensive and diverse training program, with participants beginning their daily routine at 7 am and working until 11 pm, under the guidance of top university professors.

The training was designed to prepare participants for both the theoretical and practical aspects of the competition. The key focus was on the areas that the host country, Czecho-Slovakia, specialized in that year. After four rigorous hours of examination for both theoretical and practical knowledge, four participants were selected to represent the country at the IChO.

Remarkably, all four participants ended up winning medals: one gold, two silver, and one bronze. The author retained the bronze medal, cherishing it as a testimony to their hard work and dedication. This training experience was so intense that the content of the entire first year of chemistry studies was condensed into a single long week.

Conclusion

The path to becoming an IChO medalist is not for the faint-hearted, but it is filled with invaluable learning experiences and personal growth. For those who share the same passion for chemistry and the desire to excel in international competitions, the journey begins with the right preparation and a commitment to excellence.