STEM Institute Returns After a One-Year Hiatus
Image Credits: Grayson Throckmorton
The STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) Institute is back after a year-long break, and Sequoyah students are excited about all the opportunities it brings. Meeting every Wednesday afternoon for an hour, the STEM Institute is an engaging environment filled with student-led presentations, snacks, and lively discussions on a wide range of STEM-related topics. This year’s program also includes various field trips and preparations for the LA County Science Fair!
One highly anticipated field trip was to the Griffith Observatory, where students learned about space-related topics such as stars, constellations, and galaxies. Meeting people with lots of experience in astronomy was a great way for students to learn about upcoming research projects at the Observatory.
In addition to field trips, a significant focus of the after-school program has been guest speakers, such as Sequoyah alum Selina Yang ’20, who came to talk to the group about studying astrophysics at Cornell.
Many students have already been brainstorming and starting research on topics ranging from the world of microbes to artificial coral reefs. Advice from Director of STEM Institute and Science Department Chair Grayson Throckmorton is always available, and is crucial in helping students refine their projects and develop their presentation skills. Throckmorton explained, “I want students to really be applying their STEM experiences from their courses into real world applications through independent research and building relationships with experts in their fields of interest.”
Each Wednesday, at the beginning of STEM Institute meetings, there is a “mini TED talk,” where student volunteers present brief, relaxed talks on fascinating topics they’ve researched. Low-stakes presentations are a fun way for students to share some of their ideas. Previous topics have included the science behind boba, done by Eric Yang ’26. Connie Zhao ’27, a crucial member of the STEM institute, shared, “Amelie [Barajas ’27] and I did one on tsunamis and earthquakes!”
During mods 4-6, the STEM Institute also introduced a Z-block course, offering an additional opportunity for students to deepen their scientific knowledge and engage in inquiry, research, and collaboration; another of its aims is to set up connections for students to find mentors within their specific field of research.
Sequoyah is very excited for the return of the STEM Institute. With weekly presentations, research projects, and field trips, this year’s STEM program promises to be a rewarding experience that will help create a deeper passion for science, technology, engineering, and math in the student body. Students also have the chance to make lasting connections and memories that will last for many years to come.
Image Credits: Grayson Throckmorton