Participants filled the commons, eager to show the hard work that they had poured into their projects and presentations. Tabletops showcased various topics, all scientific. The Stem Fair offered a place for students to explore innovation and creativity, establishing a community of those who share a passion for all forms of science. Even the youngest minds found a place at the event and were able to venture out exploring ideas also brought forth by their peers. Encouraging them to keep thinking and to never give up on their passion and enthusiasm for science. Someday, perhaps one of the young minds present will go on to create something larger for themselves and that seemed to be the consensus amongst everyone in the room as the fair started up.
Those attending viewed various subjects were in view, which were open for discussion and admiration. The buzz of the crowd died down as President and Founder of the STEM team, Ryan Jacob, prepared to deliver an introductory speech to all and thank the judges. Mrs. Michelle Hill, Dr. Ronald Knight, and Mr. First Name James, representing the science department served as the judges for the evening. Jacob also thanked the rest of the STEM team, who work behind the scenes all year to ensure the formation and success of the evening. He also took one final moment to address the contenders with an inspirational statement. “Each project here today is a testament to the power of curiosity and the potential we all have to make a difference in the world,” he said. Jacob’s words marked the origination of HHS’ first ever STEM fair.
After Jacobs, Mayor John Ciccarelli gave a speech reiterating the importance of science and creativity for the younger generation, helping them construct a bright future which will bring prosperity to theirs and others lives. He expressed this feeling while sharing a few words with the crowd. “The future is bright seeing all the young students who are focusing on science,,” he said.
The grade level of some students was shocking but their young age didn’t stop them from pursuing their interests, and they faced no difficulty in finding a place for themselves in the newly instilled but welcoming community.
Young students shared the inspiration behind their projects. Roshini Duppala, a fifth grader at Auten Road said, “I learned that we have less water. I wanted to save water because everywhere I look everyone uses water which made me wonder where it goes.”
Shrey Daga and Arjun Sinha , fifth graders at Auten Road also explained the inspiration behind their project on automobile safety, “Car crashes have been increasing and it’s becoming a problem that’s affecting many families causing deaths and injuries, ” Daga said.
Ahana Guha and Sufi Tavathia a team of two showcased refraction of light in their project the “Color Corner”, fifth grader at Auten Road Tavathia said “We wanted to make something with art in it, something that kids would love, something bright, and something that basically shows us.”
8th grade middle school student and winner Darsh Dadhich shared his motivation behind his presentation, The Parkinson’s Assessment Using DaT and MRI Analysis. “My grandfather had Parkinson’s Disease. I was around seven at the time when he died, so I was old enough to understand that something was wrong with his tremors and constant issues “, he said. “I wanted to make a difference in this, because I have a personal connection in this Area.”He admitted that it got complicated at certain times while conducting his research, but he continued his project. “I couldn’t give up now, so I just kept going until I finished, and now seeing the results, the dopamine level that I got from seeing the results was so high,” he said.
Strolling between the tables and taking in the effort the students had put into their inventions, it was clear that students needed teacher support. Adviser Mr. John Askew took on the role of adviser, connecting students from Auten Road, HMS and HHS. Askew explained how he came to advise the team. “I had a couple of students approach that had an interest in hosting a kind of STEM fair. They wanted to hold this kind of, not necessarily contest of doing science you know but more so like the celebration of doing science and engagement in science within Hillsborough.”
As the evening progressed and the winners were announced participants began to pack up their creations however the energy and the slight murmur of curiosity was still as prevalent as ever, as the founder addressed all with a final message, “I encourage everyone to head home and reflect on the incredible work we’ve seen, and of course, keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.” The team hopes to continue and expand the fair in the future, offering a place of comfort and community for young thinkers. The fair’s conclusion and success cemented the idea that curiosity knows no limits and anyone can contribute to the continued evolution of the world of science.
