Women In STEM (WIS) is an organization which aims towards representing women in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. On Tuesday, October 22nd, the WIS club hosted a meeting about DNA strands. This club has a way of making its members engage and enjoy themselves while learning. This meeting was no different; they used gummy bears and twizzlers to make and understand what a DNA strand is. It was a fun activity to do, and the members were able to enjoy a nice snack afterward.
They have done other similar activities. For example, they made slime to learn about polymers, to represent cross-links between polymer chains. They also used pudding, oreos, and gummy worms to represent soil erosion. These interactive labs make it easy to understand while providing a hands-on way of learning which many people prefer. They create an easy pathway for women to get interested in the STEM field without feeling intimidated.
Here’s what Julia McDermott, senior and Vice President of WIS, says: “Girls are encouraged to join Women in STEM because we have so much fun learning and working together while empowering the young women of Seminole High School. Female representation is already so limited, especially in these fields. It is so refreshing to have so many opportunities here at Seminole High School to break the stereotype of just men being able to do certain jobs and expanding the table for more ideas and experiences.”
If you are interested in attending, the meetings typically occur every other Tuesday in the Science Building room 030. They have an Instagram account (@shs.womeninstem) that is filled with important information. There is a $20 fee requirement that is able to be paid through the My School Bucks app.
This club is meant to be a welcoming and safe space intended to help you grow, have fun, learn, and meet new people. So don’t think it’s too late to stop by!