Finding a career that fits can be challenging. For many high school students, the multitude of potential fields and job titles can be overwhelming, especially when complicated by a lack of exposure to them.
Thankfully, Burroughs High School offers an immersive experience that introduces students to a wide range of career fields, all in one day.
On Friday, Feb. 13, professionals from China Lake presented the work they do to BHS students enrolled in STEM classes.
This event took careful planning and coordination via the BHS staff team, and created an amazing experience for all participants.
“I believe STEM Day is essential,” said Math Department Chair Katie Wadley. “It helps students connect their learning to real-world applications and introduces them to potential technical careers. It also allows them to experience exciting career opportunities and see firsthand the innovative technological advancements being developed by local scientists.”
One of STEM Day’s biggest strengths and most challenging tasks is the creation of pathways that match students in specific courses to an appropriate presentation. STEM Day organizers designed eight unique tracks and 15 different presentations for students in biology; chemistry; Earth Science, CTE, and Special Education; Algebra 2 and Calculus; Engineering and Physics; Honors/AP Biology and Chemistry; and Metal.
Science Department Chair Jessica Wilson was pleased with this year’s slate of activities and presentations.
“Some of this year’s highlights included some familiar favorites such as the parachutes, the Sidewinder missile, SNORT track and the chemistry demonstrations where students are freezing flowers in liquid nitrogen and condemning gummi bears to death by fire,” said Wilson. “We also had some new presentations, such as an environmental group speaking about conservation on the base and NCIS that spoke to the Criminal Justice and Forensics classes.”
Around campus, students and staff alike are eager to see the annual STEM Day tradition continue.
“I think Burroughs should continue doing STEM Day as it helps kids understand what work is being done on the base and how our small town is able to influence our country in a positive way through military technology,” said senior John Baronowski. “I really liked the Materials Science demonstrations, as that is my intended major. The people from the base were really friendly and definitely reinforced my want to work for the Navy.”
Junior Jasmine Casas Flores also felt STEM Day aligned to her college and career planning.
“The NCIS presentation was great because it was full of information and it was interesting since I want to pursue a career in law.” said Casas Flores. “The gentleman who gave the presentation was incredibly knowledgeable and answered all of my questions.”
