1. What is your background and how did you come to be the education program coordinator at the Sciencenter?
My degree is in biology. I was working in conservation research when I realized that some of my favorite parts of my job were sharing the science factor I was working on. Also, my enjoyment of working with children led me to look at positions in informal science education; jobs in nature centers, museums, parks, and other places that need science interpretation. I was lucky to land a job at the Sciencenter in the education department.
I’ve been working at the Sciencenter for almost four years. In that time, I’ve been involved in different aspects of science education, like the development of science activities, exhibit design, curriculum development, and engaging people in making their own discoveries!
2. Can you describe the different educational categories for readers unfamiliar with the Sciencenter?
At the Sciencenter, we encourage the development and use of skills people use when studying science. Skills such as making predictions and observations, problem-solving, and experimenting. We have specific programs that support early learners (ages 0-4), elementary-aged children, and middle schoolers, but we invite all ages to visit and explore the Sciencenter!
3. What is your favorite or most rewarding part of your role?
I think my favorite part is getting to share in other people’s discoveries. Sometimes, that looks like teaching a toddler how to use a pipette, a second grader telling me how they solved an engineering problem, or a visitor showing me something cool they’ve found in an animal exhibit. Seeing the joy that others find at the Sciencenter keeps the work exciting.
4. Are there any upcoming educational programs or exhibits to look forward to at the Sciencenter?
We have a ton of fun programming happening this summer! We have Science Together (an early learner program) on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. We also have Tortoise Tuesdays (on Tuesdays) at 1 p.m. and Science Connections on Saturdays at 2 p.m. Our featured exhibition, Life on the Edge, is open for exploration through the summer. There are also various guided activities every day, like meeting a reptile, exploring tide pool animals, and hands-on science activities. Check out our calendar or Instagram for daily details.
