The #STEMTok community on TikTok is thriving, with more and more young people engaging with science, technology, engineering, and maths content on the platform. In line with this trend, earlier this year TikTok launched a feed dedicated to STEM across Europe. Since the launch, close to a third of teens across Ireland and the UK are now visiting TikTok's dedicated STEM feed on a weekly basis, and STEM content in Ireland has grown by 20% since its launch. This month, we’re spotlighting standout Irish creators who are leading the charge, like Denise Doyle (@lcchemistryprep), an intern doctor making fun, accessible, and educational content for Leaving Cert Chemistry and HPAT prep. Read more below!

Q: How did you get into STEM, and what motivated you to share it on TikTok specifically? A: After my Leaving Cert in 2016, I was lucky enough to study Science in UCD. I was amazed by the facilities, the lecturers, and the research that was happening on the boundary of new frontiers every week there. I was excited by this and decided to study medicine afterwards to help translate what was happening at the lab bench into patient care.

@lcchemistrytutor Don’t forget about these little fellas for your chemistry exam! ✅🧪 #chemistry #lc #leavingcert #leavingcertchemistry #science #safetysymbols #alevels #chemmajor #leavingcert2024 #exams #student #study #studytok ♬ original sound - LC Chemistry Tutor

Q: What are your top tips for students heading back to school this year? A: Study little and often. Active recall is the best technique to help you achieve this. My favourite app for active recall is ANKI! Also, getting better at a subject doesn’t always require expensive tuition on the side.

Q: What STEM trends are you currently loving on TiKTok? A: I really enjoy any TikTok that breaks down difficult scientific concepts into easily digestible pieces. I think it’s amazing that a social media platform can provide so much educational content for young students.

Q: What are your main tips for STEM students ahead of the exams? A: Don’t compromise on the basics. Of course, putting in the hours behind the laptop studying is important but try to make time for exercise (even if it’s just a little walk), nutritious food, and sleep. ALWAYS get your 8 hours!

Q: What has been the reaction from the TikTok community since you started posting TikToks? A: Overwhelmingly positive. It’s such a joy to receive thank you messages and comments from students across Ireland. To think I am helping or inspiring students feels amazing!

Q: What is the biggest challenge for students in STEM? How do you help them overcome it? A: I think it’s probably dealing with imposter syndrome or feeling you’re not quite up to the mark/able for a particular course or exam etc. Do your best, trust your work, and keep going.

@lcchemistrytutor Application of knowledge is 🔑 #Chemistry #teacher #lc #leavingcert #exams #uni #leavingcertchemistry #leavingcert2024 #H1 #grinds #tutor #tutoring #science #organicchemistry #explore #viral #foryou ♬ original sound - LC Chemistry Tutor

Q: What is your favourite TikTok you have made to date and why? A: It’s got to be a longer chatty video where I explained organic reaction mechanisms. It’s a really tricky part of the leaving certificate chemistry curriculum and I was delighted to have received so much positive feedback on it. There are plenty of other similar videos on my page too!

Q: What other Irish STEM creators are on your For You feed? A: @miss.m.biochem and @spacenora !