This year, dozens of students from across the state joined the University of Miami College of Engineering (UM CoE) through the 2019 University of Miami Summer Scholar research program and broke new ground in engineering.
“We have an obligation to the community and world, to indicate not only what is attractive about engineering and its contributions, but also why it’s a discipline to learn for both intellectual purposes and career success,” said Daniel Berg, dean of the UM CoE. “Bringing young people to the College, whether they go into engineering or not, is part of our obligation to the community to explain what we do, why it’s exciting and why it’s useful to society.”
As a UM Summer Scholar, high school sophomores and juniors can explore the vibrant South Florida landscape, connect with high school students from around the world, live on the beautiful Coral Gables campus, and most importantly discover their true academic passions – all while earning college credits.
“Summer Scholars is an opportunity for high school students to learn more about engineering and about the research within the College,” explained Helena Solo-Gabriele, associate dean for research and professor in the Department of Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering. “Overall, it’s a great program for the students involved, providing them the opportunity to interact directly with our faculty.”
Throughout the course of the program, CoE faculty led groups of UM Summer Scholars on tours of the College, demonstrating the equipment and capabilities of the UM CoE Johnson & Johnson 3D Printing Center of Excellence Collaborative Laboratory, Additive Manufacturing Laboratory and Machine Shop facilities.
“The students were very happy to learn about the details of the machines and equipment, as well as their capabilities,” said Singiresu Rao, professor in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. “Some students came to my office after the session to express their appreciation for arranging the lab demonstrations and also for the enthusiasm our faculty expressed during their demonstrations.”
During the Summer Scholars Program, students worked as research assistants in laboratories across the College to complete real research projects alongside faculty mentors.
“These young scholars are learning about what engineering is, as well as the specific subdisciplines in engineering,” said Solo-Gabriele. “The program helps students figure out what they would like to major in college and also helps them determine if the ‘U’ is a good fit for them.”
Many Summer Scholars continue their research careers while studying at the UM CoE through the College’s undergraduate research programs.
“Along with gaining education and insight, students see what it takes and what they have to do to become a professional engineer,” said Berg. “And who knows, if a student out of that group is really attracted to engineering, the experience will mean a lifetime of difference.”
