Outreach

At KidTREC Camp (formerly known as GirlTREC), University of Arkansas, Dr. Majumdar, assisted by Ph.D. student Tolu Olatunji, led an Aerospace Engineering and Aviation workshop for an enthusiastic group of 5th–6th grade girls. The session introduced students to the fundamentals of airplane systems and provided hands-on experience using a flight simulator. To our surprise, most were more excited about crashing the virtual planes than flying them safely. While unexpected, this reflected the natural curiosity of “tweens,” who enjoy testing boundaries in safe environments. Crashing in the simulator became a way to experiment with control, observe cause and effect, and learn without fear of failure. The day was filled with curiosity, questions, and enthusiasm, fostering a lasting interest in aerospace engineering.

At the University of Arkansas’ Girl Scout Mini Camp, ASYST Lab hosted a Rocket Science 101 session for K–8th grade students. Activities were tailored to age groups. Younger students designed and launched mini straw rockets, while older students built stomp rockets. Through these hands-on demonstrations, the girls explored fundamental principles of force, thrust, and motion.  Students eagerly experimented with their designs, asked thoughtful questions about how rockets work, and celebrated each successful launch. Such engagements reinforce our passion for STEM outreach and our mission to inspire the next generation of aerospace engineers.