More than one thousand elementary students participated in the second annual Curious Minds Science Zone at Columbia University Irving Medical Center (CUIMC) on September 18. The event, held outdoors at Haven Plaza, offered third- through sixth-graders a range of interactive science activities guided by over 50 volunteers from CUIMC’s faculty, staff, and student body.
The children engaged in hands-on experiences such as examining their own cells under microscopes, measuring muscle electrical activity, practicing surgical suturing techniques, and using stethoscopes to listen to their heartbeats. These activities aimed to introduce students to various scientific concepts in an accessible environment.
The event was organized by the Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons Office of Student Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging, working together with the Office of Academic and Community Partnerships and the Stem Cell Initiative.
Clara Leon, director in the VP&S Office of Student Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging, stated: “With this event, we hope to ignite children’s natural curiosity and allow them to explore various scientific fields, ask questions, and deepen their understanding of the world around them.”
Several volunteers returned after participating in last year’s inaugural event. Dario Sirabella, associate research scientist with the Columbia Stem Cell Initiative (CSCI), said: “It’s a very important way to promote science. Last year was really successful with a lot of people, kids, and teachers, asking a lot of questions. Young kids can get a better idea of what science really is at events like these.” Grazia Iannello, another CSCI volunteer and associate research scientist added: “We love to show them that science can be fun and a great way to pursue their curiosity.”
Each child received a mini-white coat and plastic stethoscope as part of the experience. Monica Lypson, vice dean for education at VP&S remarked: “At CUIMC, we believe that science and medicine should feel accessible to every child in our community. Bringing local students onto our campus for hands-on experiences not only shows them that they can see themselves as future scientists, health professionals, and innovators, it shows our community—and our learners—VP&S and CUIMC at its best.”
