A Day of Discovery: Physics, Engineering, and Future Possibilities
On Saturday, October 17, Wake Forest University’s College LAUNCH scholars gathered at Wake Downtown for a Saturday Summit focused on exploring opportunities in physics and engineering. Throughout the day, scholars participated in hands-on demonstrations, interactive activities, and conversations with Wake Forest faculty and students, gaining a closer look at how STEM concepts connect to everyday life and future academic and career opportunities.
The morning began with small-group rotations led by members of four Wake Forest student organizations: the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE), and Theta Tau. Through these activities, scholars explored different aspects of engineering, learned about the experiences of current college students, and discovered how collaboration and problem-solving play important roles in STEM fields.
Scholars also had the opportunity to explore physics through interactive demonstrations led by Wake Forest faculty and students. These activities encouraged scholars to ask questions, make observations, and see scientific principles in action. A telescope activity offered another opportunity to engage with physics concepts and learn more about the tools scientists use to study the world around them.
As the day continued, scholars participated in sessions highlighting the many directions a background in STEM can lead. Discussions explored the connections between STEM and finance, applications of science and engineering in healthcare, and academic and career pathways within physics and engineering. These conversations helped scholars see how skills developed in STEM fields can be applied across a wide range of industries and professions.
In addition to the STEM-focused activities, scholars spent time collaborating on their Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR) projects. Working with their peers, they continued developing ideas and exploring issues affecting their communities. The Summit concluded with reflection activities, giving scholars an opportunity to consider what they learned and how these experiences might connect to their own interests and goals.
College LAUNCH extends a special thank you to the Wake Forest physics and engineering faculty, student organizations, and student volunteers who helped lead activities and share their experiences throughout the day. Their time and involvement provided scholars with valuable opportunities to explore new interests, connect with members of the Wake Forest community, and learn more about the possibilities within physics and engineering.
