In 2018, Julien-Pierre Houle had a simple goal: understand what quantum computing actually was and how it could be useful in real life. He decided to simulate Grover’s algorithm, a quantum algorithm that could one day speed up database searches. It seemed like an interesting challenge for a CWSF project.
That early curiosity set the direction for his entire academic path. Fast-forward to December 2024, and Julien-Pierre found himself at the Stockholm International Youth Science Symposium (SIYSS), dressed formally in a tail coat, attending the Nobel Prize ceremonies and banquet alongside laureates, the Swedish royal family, and previous Nobel Prize winners.
“It honestly felt like a movie,” he recalls. “Before the ceremony, I got the chance to talk with fascinating people, from members of the government to previous Nobel winners. It really felt like I was living a dream.”
The Foundation: CWSF and Finding Community
What stands out most from Julien-Pierre’s CWSF experience wasn’t just the science, it was the people. Meeting students from different backgrounds with totally different scientific passions opened his eyes in unexpected ways.
“It was one of the first times I was hanging out with people my age from outside Quebec, so that alone was eye-opening,” he explains. “The energy and curiosity everyone had really pushed me to keep going with my projects. And honestly, I’m still close friends with several people I met at CWSF.”
Those connections proved foundational. The skills he developed at regional fairs and CWSF, presenting complex ideas to broad audiences, thinking critically, seeking feedback from mentors, shaped him in ways he didn’t fully appreciate at the time. They nurtured his passion for STEM while building the confidence he’d need for international stages.
“Those foundations made me feel confident and prepared when stepping onto the international stage at SIYSS,” he reflects.
A Week Among Nobel Laureates
Nobel Week in Stockholm proved both inspiring and transformative. Julien-Pierre attended Nobel Prize lectures in medicine, physics, and chemistry, hearing laureates discuss not only their groundbreaking discoveries but the personal stories and motivations behind their work.
The lectures had the biggest impact. “Hearing these world-leading scientists speak about their struggles, setbacks, and doubts made me realize that even at the highest level, the scientific journey is never linear,” he says. “Their perseverance, curiosity, and passion stood out more than the discoveries themselves. It reinforced for me that breakthroughs come from persistence and continuing to explore even when the path isn’t easy or obvious.”
But the most surreal moment came at the Nobel Banquet. After the award ceremony, two students from SIYSS had the chance to attend the banquet with Nobel laureates, the royal family, and other influential figures. Near the end of the night, the Nobel winners each gave short speeches.
Geoffrey Hinton, the Physics laureate, made a particular impression. “He talked about the risks of AI, not just for science but for society as a whole,” Julien-Pierre remembers. “It was powerful to hear someone at that level with such expertise address those concerns. Definitely a reminder of how important responsible science will be in the future.”
The Unexpected Gift of Peer Connection
Meeting Nobel laureates was obviously extraordinary, but Julien-Pierre realized the peer interactions proved just as meaningful as the ceremonies themselves.
“I expected the ceremonies and lectures to be memorable, which they certainly were, but I didn’t anticipate how meaningful the peer interactions would be,” he admits. “Throughout the week, I had conversations with students working on everything from AI to microbiology and maths. Hearing their perspectives, challenges, and ambitions broadened my view of what scientific impact can look like.”
One project that caught his attention was by Davide Farassino from Switzerland, who used AI to model chaotic physical systems like the double pendulum. “It was such a cool mix of machine learning and physics, two things I love, and it really stuck with me.”
Compared to CWSF, SIYSS opened his eyes to the global side of STEM. “You get to meet brilliant young scientists from all around the world, learn how research and education systems differ, and hear perspectives shaped by totally different cultures,” he explains. “It broadened my horizons in a way that I’ll always appreciate.”
Presenting Quantum Physics to the World
At SIYSS, Julien-Pierre presented his research two ways: through poster sessions similar to CWSF with conversations with students and the public, and through a seven-minute stage presentation in front of a large audience.
Besides switching from French to English, his presentation style didn’t change much. “The big thing was just making sure I explained quantum physics in a way that anyone could follow, which is always a fun challenge!”
Speaking with people from diverse scientific backgrounds highlighted the importance of communicating complex ideas clearly and accessibly. “It was rewarding to see others engage with my work, and it reminded me that being able to explain research simply is a core skill in science.”
Skills That Matter Beyond the Lab
One of the most valuable skills Julien-Pierre developed through his scientific journey had nothing to do with equations or algorithms, it was simply getting comfortable talking to people.
“That was huge during Nobel Week,” he notes. “Whether it was chatting with other SIYSS students or having conversations with researchers and leaders in Stockholm, being able to communicate and connect with people helped a lot. Science is very often collaborative, so being able to do this makes a big difference.”
Between official events, the group explored Stockholm, visiting museums, enjoying Christmas markets, and attending the Nobel Dialogue on the future of health. Even scientists need a break from time to time!
Advice for Future Scientists
For students unsure about pursuing a STEM project, Julien-Pierre’s message is clear: absolutely go for it.
“Sure, it can feel intimidating at first, but a STEM project is all about diving into something you’re curious about, building something from scratch, practicing how to present your ideas, pushing your comfort zone, and meeting awesome people along the way.”
He encourages students to work on anything they’re genuinely interested in. “In science, there will always be failure and experiments don’t always work. But when you’re passionate about what you’re doing, you find the motivation to keep going.”
His final piece of advice? “Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Reach out to mentors, teachers, anyone who might guide you. Asking questions has been huge for me. The support I got from people around me made a massive difference in my journey as a young scientist.”
Why These Experiences Matter
Now pursuing graduate studies in quantum computing, Julien-Pierre sees clearly why international events like SIYSS are so important.
“Supporting young scientists is an investment in the future,” he argues. “These experiences help develop critical skills, spark big ideas, and strengthen the next generation of Canadian innovators. It also helps develop international collaboration.”
Canada has a strong scientific community, and opportunities like SIYSS ensure that community remains connected to global conversations about science’s role in society.
From a high school project simulating quantum algorithms to standing among Nobel laureates in Stockholm, Julien-Pierre’s journey illustrates how early curiosity, supported by programs like Youth Science Canada, can open doors to extraordinary experiences. His story reminds us that the scientific path is never truly linear, but with persistence, passion, and the courage to keep asking questions, it can lead to places you never imagined possible.