Learning Experiences

Harvard Museum of Natural History

During our Harvard Museum of Natural History visit, we had the opportunity to explore and engage with all of the exhibits carefully and thoughtfully. We used the "See, Think, Wonder" thinking routine to make detailed observations and ask complex questions. Recording our observations and self-reflections in our journals encouraged us to think more deeply about the exhibits and connect them to our prior knowledge.

Since this was one of our first visits, this experience helped us step out of our comfort zone and grow as learners, strengthening our observation skills and communication. Individually, we got the chance to learn about the history of the natural world and ask meaningful questions. As a group, we became more confident in sharing our ideas and listening to others' perspectives.

McGovern Institute

Our visit to the McGovern Institute in Kendall Square helped us look into the world of neuroscience and brain research. We learned how scientists study the brain using different brain imaging technologies, such as fMRIs and other equipment, to better understand how the brain works. Researchers also shared how discoveries in neuroscience are then transformed into treatments and therapies for neurological and brain-related conditions, which highlights the connection between scientific research and patient care.

This experience was one of our first learning experiences, and it deepened our understanding of how innovation and teamwork lead the way for medical breakthroughs. Seeing research in action inspired us to think about the many careers that contribute to improving human health, especially regarding the brain and neuroscience. By exploring real-world applications of neuroscience, we gained more insight into the process and impact of research and the importance of curiosity, persistence, and teamwork in advancing medicine.

Koch Institute

Our visit to the Koch Institute at MIT gave us an inside look at innovative cancer research and how scientists and healthcare professionals are working to better understand, prevent, and treat cancer. We learned about many different types of cancer and explored the research being conducted to develop more effective therapies and improve patient outcomes. We also toured the laboratory, which allowed us to see where groundbreaking discoveries begin, and speaking directly with some researchers allowed us to ask questions about their work, career paths, and the challenges they face in advancing cancer research.

This experience showed us how innovation, collaboration, and perseverance are leading recent breakthroughs in cancer treatment. Seeing research move from the laboratory toward real-world medical applications helped us understand the impact that science can have on improving lives. The visit inspired us to think about the future of medicine and also encouraged curiosity, teamwork, and continuous learning in solving some of the world's most complex health challenges.

Novartis

During our visit, we learned about the drug discovery process, from identifying potential drug targets and testing compounds to conducting research that can eventually lead to new medicines for patients. We also explored how biotechnology, chemistry, and engineering come together to transform scientific discoveries into life-changing therapies.

One of the highlights of the experience was participating in hands-on laboratory activities that introduced us to the tools and techniques used by researchers every day. We practiced using micropipettes, operated laboratory equipment such as centrifuges and vortexes, and learned why these pieces of technology are really important for mixing and analyzing biological samples. These activities also gave us a better understanding of the laboratory skills that support biotechnology and pharmaceutical research.

Cambridge Savings Bank

Our visit to Cambridge Savings Bank gave us valuable insight into the importance of financial literacy and preparing for a successful financial future. We learned the basics of budgeting, saving money, and tracking our spending, as well as practical different types of ways for managing our finances responsibly. The session also taught us many essential life skills, including creating strong and secure passwords, protecting personal information, and developing healthy financial habits that can reduce stress and build long-term stability.

One of the highlights of the visit was having the opportunity to speak directly with professionals at the bank. Through conversations, we discussed investing tools that could be utilized by young people and learned about the steps we can take now to build up our investing portfolio and gain more financial confidence. This experience showed us that financial success begins with smart decisions and consistent habits, leaving us with the knowledge and skills to make smart financial choices throughout our lives.

Google

Our visit to Google's Cambridge headquarters gave us a behind-the-scenes look at one of the world's leading technology companies. We explored different areas of the office and learned about Google's wide range of products and different types of innovative projects. One of the most interesting parts of the experience was sitting down with some Google employees, who shared their personal career journeys, the challenges they overcame, and the skills that helped them succeed in the technology industry.

We also learned about the advancements in artificial intelligence and how upcoming technologies are transforming the way people learn. Through engaging discussions, we gained a deeper understanding of how innovation is driven by teamwork and continuous learning. This visit inspired us to think beyond the classroom and explore the variety of careers in technology and AI.

Pfizer

Our visit to Pfizer's Cambridge Research & Development campus helped us see how one of the world's leading biopharmaceutical companies transforms discoveries into life-changing medicines. During our tour, we explored laboratories and learned how advanced technologies help contribute to every stage of the research and drug development process. We also had the opportunity to learn about one of Pfizer's successful drug development stories and gained valuable insight into the effort required to create a new, successful drug.

One of the most memorable parts of the experience was participating in a Q&A session with Pfizer scientists, biologists, and researchers. They shared their personal career journeys, discussed the projects they work on, and explained how their research contributes to improving the lives of patients worldwide. Hearing about the diverse career paths within biomedical research helped us better understand the many opportunities available in science and healthcare while showing us the importance of collaboration across different disciplines.

JTS Workshops

As Junior Teaching Scholars, we each led workshops that turned curiosity and discovery into hands-on design, science, and problem-solving. These sessions allowed our juniors to think like engineers, architects, and researchers while also building confidence as both collaborators and leaders.

Paper Plane Design & Flight

Jason Tong and Husain Chowdhry

During this JTS workshop, the students constructed and tested their own paper aircraft, experimenting with different paper plane shapes and folding techniques to find the paper plane design that flew the farthest and smoothest. The three teams then tested their airplanes and competed outside to see whose plane flew the farthest. After the competition, the X-PLORERS learned about various components of aviation, such as what an angle of attack was, how air flows over and under wings, and how changes in pressure affect taste buds.

Spaghetti & Marshamallow Towers

Matthew Yang

In this workshop, the X-PLORERS worked in teams of four to create the tallest spaghetti and marshmallow towers they could. Several groups started well and had a strong base at the bottom and a supportive structure. However, the heat of the room softened the marshmallows, and the towers that once stood high began to tilt, sag, and collapse mid-competition. Instead of giving up, X-PLORERS kept redesigning and building, while one team decided to just have fun and built a marshmallow "bungalow" instead. After the activity, the students learned a little more about the architecture and design process and how they could apply it to their marshmallow and spaghetti towers (they also had to clean up the hardened marshmallows on the table, floor, and chairs).

Strawberry DNA Extraction

Tanha Tarannum

In the strawberry DNA workshop, the X-PLORERS went through a series of procedures to visualize DNA from a strawberry. They mashed strawberries inside a bag, mixed a concoction of water, dish soap, and salt, and added it into the bag. The mixture was then strained using numerous coffee filters to get rid of any last big pieces of strawberry. Lastly, rubbing alcohol was added to help get the DNA of the strawberry to show in the form of cloudy strands of DNA. The students then collected the stringy clumps with wooden sticks and skewers so they could examine the DNA up close. Descriptions of the process and how it allowed us to see the DNA were included in a short explanation after the activity, and it allowed the students to understand DNA in simpler terms.

Cognitive Games & Memory

Elaine Chanie

The brain memory activity challenged X-PLORERS to test how well they could remember different kinds of information. X-PLORERS also learned that different parts of the brain help with different kinds of memory and that short-term memory and long-term memory do not work the same way. Through memory games and competitions, X-PLORERS practiced what they could recall immediately and what remained in their memory over a more extended period of time.

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