Service Through Science

Transcript

Say hi to Lauren, a high school salutatorian from nearby Bedford, Texas and now a junior Biology major. She has a love of criminal forensics and get this lights to light her hand on fire. As a UTA science ambassador, let Lauren show you how it’s done, and please do not try this at home.

– Thanks, Alex, and welcome to UTA. Graduating as the salutatorian for my high school class, I knew I wanted to attend a university that not only appreciated my efforts, but supported me as I moved on to the next chapter of my life. Luckily for me, UTA has not only met those expectations but exceeded them. UTA has given me so many valuable experiences that I know will help me pursue my dreams of becoming a forensic scientist. From fingerprinting exercises to running experiments in the lab, the coursework I’ve completed so far has only cemented my love of science and of UTA, and UTA STEM opportunities extend well beyond the campus. As a UTA Science ambassador, I work to inspire students grades three through 12 to pursue careers in science through fun and educational science demonstrations, from lab safety to making elephant toothpaste to lighting our hands on fire, the UTA Science ambassadors have performed more than 2000 shows for over 150,000 grade school students in our community since 2008. And UTA has other great ways to get involved on campus, such as with its annual big event that started in 2000. It’s a day of service led by students that some years have seen over 1,100 students donating over 4,000 hours of service to the community. These service and service learning initiatives give UTA Mavericks the chance to go out into the surrounding communities with a mission to transform and make a positive difference. UTA has made a lasting impact on so many lives, including mine. For me, UTA has given me the resources to pursue my dreams and ready myself for the future, while also inspiring the next generation of STEM students. I can’t wait to see what the rest of my time here has in store for me. That’s a wrap for me. Back to you, Alex.

– Great job Lauren. UTA’s commitment to its surrounding communities is changing hundreds of thousands of lives. It’s amazing to see how students making a difference, whether it’s cleaning up a park or inspiring a new generation of STEM students. Keep up the great work, amazing job.