GMSSO SPARK: Science Projects Activities Reaching Kids
Graduate Medical Sciences Student Organization (GMSSO) has been awarded a $1,000 Civic Engagement Grant from Research!America. They plan to work with the Dorchester Boys and Girls Club to provide resources and supplies for scientific outreach with “SPARK: Science Projects Activities Reaching Kids.”
The initiative is led by Raissa Zuim Dantas De Souza and Shannon Forlivio. By distributing science experiment kits and instructions, they hope to highlight the important of scientists, especially during the pandemic, and inspire young students to engage with science.
“With the current pandemic continuing for the foreseeable future, many children may not have access to materials and resources needed for science education. Our goal is to lessen these burdens by providing supplies and structure to children,” said GMSSO President Raissa Zuim Dantas de Souza.
GMSSO will provide Zoom links to families so that they can engage with graduate students during the scientific process. The students will help with experiments, provide support and answer any questions. These gatherings will happen once a week for several weeks. Zoom sessions will be recorded for people who miss the event and available at the GMSSO website.
“This year has shown how important science is, and that we can lead the youth to a journey in science and inspire them through it,” said de Souza.