For many of you, this time of year is probably when the pressure is really starting to rack up. In between meeting project or performance review deadlines, or revising for exams, learning about science and engineering probably feels like more of a chore than an inspiration to do amazing things.

I remembered feeling like this when I was studying towards my first degree, which was why it always felt incredibly refreshing to come to campus every May, to find it covered with the colours and excitement and glamour that is Imperial Festival. From learning about the latest research that is helping to prevent hypertension from excessive saltwater consumption in Bangladesh, to chatting with PhD students about how to prevent meteorites from destroying Earth, or even sticking my hands into green goop to get a hands-on understanding of what snot is made up of, the Festival reminds me of how important and fun it is to be curious again, gets me to ask big questions and think critically, and inspires me to pursue opportunities that can help make the world better. 

We've also launched an opportunity specially designed for...PhD students

This year, Imperial Festival is back and richer than ever before - the Festival team promises entire new venues that will explore even more of Imperial's research. In particular, I am delighted to be able to work with the Festival team again, this time bringing our Student Development team in closer collaboration with the Festival to give Imperial students more opportunities to take part.

If you want to take a day out to relax from studies, help make the Festival a memorable experience for visitors, and get some hours towards your Imperial Plus certificate, then come and find out more about being a volunteer at the Festival!

We've also launched an opportunity specially designed for those of you who are PhD students. Are you eager to share your enthusiasm for your subject with thousands of visitors to Imperial Festival? If so, sign up to demonstrate your research on Exhibition Road with Imperial's award-winning public engagement Tricycle! You can take part even if you are a Masters or Undergraduate student.

And even if you're not sure about volunteering, come along and check out Imperial Festival on Saturday May 7 or Sunday May 8 anyway. It's a wonderful opportunity to remind yourself why you fell in love with science in the first place.