Tamarac High School senior Kayla Mulqueen researched hydropower.
A group of local high school seniors worked together to focus attention on the need for both economically and environmentally friendly forms of energy in the wake of growing demand and increasing costs.
High school seniors in Questar III’s New Visions: Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) program held an energy symposium at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy on March 7.
Each STEM student created a research project on a specific type of energy, such as geothermal, hydropower and passive solar heat. After two to three months of work both in and out of the classroom, the students presented their findings at the symposium, which included an interactive technology display.
Tamarac High School senior Kayla Mulqueen researched hydropower. She designed an elaborate poster and display which demonstrated how a hydropower system would operate and its benefits.
Mulqueen decided to partake in New Visions because she wanted to challenge herself. “My cousin and friend did New Visions and I always thought it seemed interesting,” she said. She plans on majoring in biomedical engineering in college.
Patrick Murray, a Hoosic Valley senior, researched the pros and cons of electric and internal combustion vehicles.
Patrick Murray, a Hoosic Valley senior, researched the pros and cons of electric and internal combustion vehicles. Murray said this topic has interested him for some time. Last year, Murray and a classmate built an electric bike, which he upgraded and displayed at his presentation. Murray plans on pursuing an electrical engineering degree after high school.
In addition to unveiling their findings, students also participated in panel discussions with topics including: “Can/Should the U.S. Reduce Dependence on Foreign Oil?”, “Hydrofracking”, “Is Nuclear Energy a Realistic Possibility for the World?” and “Who Will Lead the Way to Energy Efficiency- Grassroots? Technology? Government? Conservation?” Each student had a standpoint and argued that their view was the most effective choice for solving the controversial issue they were discussing.
New Visions STEM students spent significant time studying the issues and were able to speak to onlookers with knowledge far beyond their years.
The accelerated half-day program teaches high school seniors how to implement state-of-the-art science as they explore the world of technology and engineering. Located on-campus at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, and sponsored by their Smart Lighting Engineering Research Center, students participate in laboratory experiments and interact with professionals.
New Visions teacher Tammie Borland said projects like the energy symposium teach students that engineers solve problems and provide enormous social value to the world.
“Our students are at the forefront of science and technology. By working directly with leading engineers and professionals in the field, they’re introduced to cutting edge research well before they enter college. Perhaps one of these students will find a solution to the world’s energy crisis,” said Borland.
