My Story
It was hands-on activities like egg-drop challenges, the pinewood derby, and other lab-focused programs that originally fueled my interest in physics. Being able to have creative reign over projects has always been exhilarating for me. It's really important to me to be able to share the opportunities that I've had access to.
I have co-founded a project-based chapter of women in STEM club. I also have almost 9 years of girl scouts under my belt. I've been a part of several other community clubs such as the National Junior Honors Society, WEB (Where Everyone Belongs), and have had the opportunity to be a summer camp counselor.
My Project
The “pinewood derby” program would consist of two main events: a workshop day and a race day. It may be necessary (depending on the number of participants) to hold this event several times to allow for social distancing.
During the workshop, participants will learn about the physics principles behind the mechanics of the race and variables that might increase/decrease the speed of a car. They’ll then be given the opportunity to design their own cars while learning principles of engineering and design. Finally, they will go to stations where they (with the help of volunteers) will be able to assemble and decorate their car.
The racing day will function as a competition/lab where students can have fun racing their cars while learning from experience. Prizes will be given out to those who have exemplary cars (ex. prizes will be for the fastest cars, the coolest cars, etc.).
This program will function as a fun introduction for elementary students in the STEM field, and in order to make sure it is accessible to everyone, we want the event to be completely free for those coming into it and easy to travel to.
My Interview
Check out my interview with professor and inventor Lili Deligianni where she talks about her start-up company and how she got into engineering.