This past summer (2024), two Teacher Prep students participated in WPI Noyce Internships at African Community Education (ACE) in Worcester. The Teacher Prep students brought their content knowledge and passion for STEM to ACE, where they also served as mentors to K-12 students, inspiring the next generation of learners.
During their 3–6 week summer internship, the WPI students developed and implemented engaging and interactive STEM learning opportunities. For instance, Jake Maglio and Evelyn Hubbard provided fun and engaging hands-on STEM activities. They also tutored reading and math for the English Language learning students at ACE. Furthermore, the two WPI students built strong relationships with the students and watched the students thrive throughout the program.
Evelyn Hubbard assisting a student with the boat design.
“My most memorable experience was challenging the students with only two pieces of aluminum foil, to build the strongest boat, and hold a pound of change.” - Evelyn Hubbard (‘27), Mathematics.
Jake Maglio assisting a student with STEM activity on density and buoyancy.
“My most memorable experience was on the last day of the program we were running fun activities with high school students that involved stacking dice on a popsicle stick that you had to balance in your mouth.” - Jake Maglio (‘25), Physics.
Partnerships with local youth-serving organizations continue into the school year, with WPI students volunteering as tutors. Additionally, Teacher Prep students gain valuable experience by facilitating hands-on STEM activities in out-of-school programs at community-based organizations, preparing them for their upcoming student teaching practicum in local schools.