“Mainly, it was thanks to the contribution of the people,” said Mateo Giordano, a student at the Gymnasium.
At Gymnasium school the story of a dream come true is written. Matthew Giordanoa 16-year-old student, achieved what many considered impossible: raise 11 million pesos in the midst of the economic crisis to travel to the International Biology Olympics in Kazakhstan.
It all started in March of this year, when Mateo, along with three other students from different parts of the country, was selected to represent Argentina in this prestigious international competition. However, they soon faced a significant obstacle: lack of funds.
The national government had announced that only two of the four selected students would be able to travel, along with a teacher, due to budget restrictions.
Far from giving up, Mateo decided to take matters into his own hands. “Since they told me that I could be left out, I knew I had to do something. Not only for myself, but for my teammates and for the country,” he commented in LA GACETA Central. With the determination that characterizes him, he launched a fundraising campaign that soon went viral.
“Mainly it was thanks to the contribution of the people,” Mateo said. “We are very grateful to everyone, even though we don’t know most of them. Help came from everywhere, not only in money, but also in dissemination and moral support.”
The people of Tucumán responded with enthusiasm, sharing the cause on social networks and donating generously. “We felt that people empathized with our dream of representing Argentina in an international competition. They wanted to see us achieve it and, thanks to their support, now we can all travel,” he added with emotion.
MATEO GIORDANO / PHOTO MATÍAS AUAD
The proud teacher
Next to Mateo, in the Gymnasium laboratory, is his biology teacher, Leonardo Serrano, who was a pillar of support from the beginning. “We are very happy and proud of Mateo. Seeing him fulfill his dream is a great achievement for all of us,” he said. “He is an exceptional student, with a dedication and passion for knowledge that is truly inspiring.”
The International Biology Olympiad will be held from July 7 to 14 in Kazakhstan. Mateo has already begun his intensive preparation. “I study every day, a few hours after school, which is a double shift, so I don’t have much free time. But I want to do my best so that all this effort is worth it,” commented the young man, who plans to study medicine in the future.
This trip not only represents an academic achievement for Mateo, but also a springboard towards his future goals. “This is just one more step on my path. I would like to do an exchange, learn about other cultures and continue growing in my career. Representing my country in an international competition is an honor and a great opportunity,” says Mateo, who dreams of win a medal for Argentina.
Great help
Days before leaving for Kazakhstan, Mateo reflected on the support he received. “I want to thank all the people who collaborated, either with money or by spreading our cause. Thanks to you, Argentina will have its complete delegation in the biology Olympics. It is a dream come true, and I would not have achieved it without your help,” he declares. with gratitude.
Thus, Mateo Giordano, now with his sights set on Kazakhstan, prepares to proudly carry the Argentine flag and demonstrate that, with perseverance, dreams can come true. Well deserved.
