Science fairs in South Florida inspired a group of curious and dedicated students who noticed something concerning: many bright minds were unable to participate due to a lack of guidance and limited school resources. This unequal access to science opportunities led to the creation of SciTeens, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting under-resourced students. SciTeens aims to ensure that every student, regardless of their background, can access the mentorship, support, and community they need to pursue a future in STEM.
Key Features of SciTeens
Mission to Bridge Educational Gaps: SciTeens works to close the gap between education and opportunity, especially for students in underserved communities.
Free Online Platform: The platform connects students with mentors and resources without any cost.
Support Across STEM Fields: Students can find guidance in a wide variety of scientific disciplines.
Focus on Mentorship: One-on-one guidance helps students complete meaningful science projects.
Inclusive and Welcoming Environment: The platform promotes diversity, inclusion, and equity in STEM education.
Remote Access: Mentorship and resources are accessible from any location.
Community Building: Students become part of a like-minded network of peers and mentors.
Opportunities for Students and Mentors: Both high school learners and experienced mentors can join the platform.
Goals of SciTeens
Increase Access to STEM Opportunities
Connect Students to Local and Online Programs
Promote Diversity in Scientific Communities
Encourage Innovation and Research
Build Confidence in Aspiring Scientists
Create a Lasting Impact in Under-resourced Areas
How SciTeens Helps Students
Service
Description
Mentorship Matching
Pairs students with experienced mentors to guide them through research projects
Project Support
Offers assistance in building, conducting, and presenting scientific work
Resource Sharing
Provides learning materials and program directories
Community Engagement
Allows students to collaborate, share progress, and learn from one another
STEM Program Search
Helps locate local and national opportunities suited to students' interests
Why SciTeens is Different
Student-Led Initiative: Founded by high school students who understand the challenges of limited access.
Real-World Problem Solving: Encourages research that addresses practical issues in science and society.
Platform Built on Passion: Driven by the founders’ deep love for learning and desire to help others grow.
Focus on Sustainability: Aims to make long-term changes in science education through community support.
Team Members of SciTeens
Name
Background and Interests
Angelica Castillejos
MIT student with a strong passion for data science and Python
John Sutor
Science enthusiast with a humorous side—prefers tech over biology
Shang Chen
Enjoys cooking, piano playing, and fitness
Akash Patel
Computer engineering student at USC
Carlos Mercado-Lara
Lifelong rock collector with a love for geology
Gary Wu
Former top-ten chess player in the United States
Erin Kang
STEM student with a unique fear of squirrels
Grace Jiang
Ice cream lover and origami master
Aarti Kalamangalam
Aspiring writer with a creative mind
Iman Khalid
Athlete who enjoys horseback riding and weightlifting
Hannah Scaglione
Fitness lover aiming for a future in robotic engineering
Liane Xu
Travel enthusiast with a great sense of humor
Ashley Pelton
Sudoku fan passionate about neuroscience
Ohm Parikh
A Long-time resident of New Jersey with a STEM-focused mind
Tasman Rosenfeld
Lover of loud music and salamander catching
Benefits for Students
Free Access to Mentors
Step-by-step Project Guidance
Connection to Real STEM Opportunities
Chance to Work with Like-minded Peers
Preparation for College-level Research
Encouragement to Explore New Scientific Fields
Benefits for Mentors
Mentor Opportunity
Details
Guide Aspiring Scientists
Help students plan and complete research projects
Strengthen Teaching Skills
Improve communication and mentoring abilities
Give Back to the Community
Support the next generation of STEM thinkers
Expand Your Network
Connect with other mentors and professionals in STEM
Shape Future Leaders
Play a role in a student’s academic and professional growth
Join SciTeens
Students: Join to gain access to a wide range of STEM programs, free mentoring, and a community of support.
Mentors: Sign up to share your knowledge and guide students through exciting science projects.
How to Start
Step
Action
Visit the Website
Explore SciTeens.org to learn more
Create an Account
Sign up as a student or mentor
Match with a Mentor
Get connected to someone who fits your field of interest
Start a Project
Begin working on your science fair project or STEM exploration
Join the Community
Engage in discussions, events, and online learning opportunities
Impact of SciTeens
Students Served: Hundreds of high schoolers across the U.S.
Mentors Enrolled: Dozens of professionals and university students
Programs Supported: Science fairs, research competitions, and STEM internships
Fields Covered: Biology, chemistry, physics, computer science, robotics, and more
Contact and Feedback
SciTeens is committed to improving continuously. If you feel that your expectations are not being met or you have suggestions for better service, the team welcomes your feedback. This openness reflects their core values of inclusivity and collaboration.
Future Implications
SciTeens represents a shift in how young minds experience science education. By removing barriers and promoting equal access, the platform enables every student, particularly those from under-resourced schools, to take their first steps toward a career in STEM. With free mentorship, inclusive programs, and a passionate team, SciTeens is changing the future of scientific learning—one student at a time.