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.
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