The Real World: Test it out.
July 12-18, 2009 - WUNDERS I (girls entering 9th and 10th grades)
July 12-18, 2009 - WUNDERS II (girls entering 11th and 12th grades)
WUNDERS is sponsored by a grant from the Intel Foundation.
The Program
Simply put, engineering is solving problems using math and science. Engineers make artificial organs and limbs; create robots to carry out tasks too dangerous for humans; devise ways to treat waste to keep it from polluting the environment; produce materials that are flame resistant; and improve the design of tools and toys we use every day. It's impossible to go through a single day without using something an engineer has helped to create.
WUNDERS is a hands-on exploration of engineering, math and science for young women. You will be able to learn more about potential careers in these areas by engaging in labs facilitated by a dedicated team of WPI faculty and students. Although labs change every year to accommodate repeat participants, in the past they have included comparing the quality of water from various sources and testing different techniques for making it potable, building a robot that responds to sound, and learning about the process of making artificial skin.
In addition to labs, participants work in teams on a week-long engineering design project. Last year the project involved using a wheelchair to determine what tasks are difficult for a disabled person to accomplish. The teams then each redesigned their chair and presented the results, using CAD drawings, to an audience of their peers. This year's project will focus on a different aspect of how engineering helps people.
WUNDERS isn't all work! The evenings are filled with opportunities for you to have fun with your fellow participants, who come from all over the country. Bowling, an art party, a chance to drive a Segway™, and karaoke were highlights of last year's evening activities.
A schedule of activities will be provided to successful applicants. We think you'll find the WUNDERS program to be a once-in-a-lifetime learning experience!
- See a sample schedule: Schedule (PDF)
Last modified: January 13, 2009 15:48:06