Virtual science program introduces students to engineers and scientists

Sonoma County high school students (grades 7 through 12) are invited to spend a day in the life of an engineer or scientist with Sonoma County Library’s new virtual science program, “Mind of a Scientist,” hosted weekly on Zoom.

“Mind of a Scientist” was founded by Sebastopol Regional Library librarian Rosalie Abbott and Orchard View School science teacher Milo Mitchel to help address the serious need for STEM education, particularly in Sonoma County.

"[Abbott] and I have hosted four Mind of a Scientist episodes so far and they have gone really well. The fact that students can ask questions live makes the presentations interactive and engaging,” said Mitchel in a press release announcing the program. "I'm excited about our upcoming presenters from Keysight Technologies, Medtronic and UC Davis.”

Each week, scientists and engineers present live from their labs or the field. These professionals share their adventures, answer student questions and form breakout groups to solve real-life problems. The presentations are uploaded to YouTube each Wednesday, a week after the program takes place.

With classes going virtual, Mitchel and Abbott met online and “Mind of a Scientist” was born. The program is a UC-approved elective called Intro to Science Professions.

To register for a Mind of a Scientist event, visit the library’s online events calendar. Past Mind of a Scientist presentations and short highlight videos can be found on the Sonoma County Library’s “Mind of a Scientist” YouTube playlist.

Are you a scientist or engineer looking to share about your professional experiences with high school students? Fill out the Potential Presenter Application online. Those interested can also contact Rosalie Abbott at rabbott@sonomalibrary.org. Find the program on Twitter @ScientistMind and learn more about Mind of a Scientist at milomitchel.com.