In my last full-time job before going freelance, I had the opportunity to be the communication director for the organization that runs three of the top science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) competitions for students: the Science Talent Search, Intel International Science and Engineering Fair, and Broadcom MASTERS.
All three bring together talented young scientists (middle and high school students) that have conducted independent research to meet each other, have some fantastic experiences, and for the chance to win some major cash. But for me, the best part was that meeting and learning more about these students, their projects, and their enthusiasm for STEM made me feel so optimistic about the future. We are frequently inundated with negative news, but seeing smart, talented kids pursue their passion and coming up with projects that could lead to technological advances is inspiring.
My favorite of the three was the Broadcom MASTERS, where middle school students from across the country participate in a week-long series of hands-on team competitions. For many, it’s the first time they’ve won an award and they are so delighted to have been selected.
That’s why I’m happy to be supporting this competition again this year. My role is different: I’m freelance now and only serving as the main point of contact for the media, rather than being involved in multiple aspects of communication. But I still get the chance to help introduce these young STEM stars of tomorrow and hopefully encourage them and other students to keep innovating.
The top 300 semifinalists were named on September 6 and finalists will be announced on September 20.