STEM-Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics-is shaping the world around us. It builds critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation skills. But many adolescents are still left behind in this space. To address this issue, CYDA, in partnership with Coforge, is empowering adolescents, with a special focus on girls, to explore STEM fields with confidence. They are encouraged to learn, ask questions, and build their future.
One story is of Hiral Ramesh Rathod, who, with guidance and support, discovered her passion for STEM. Her journey, shared by Amruta Pawar, Project Coordinator at CYDA, shows how girls can shine when given the right chance. Hiral is now a role model for others like her-ready to inspire the next generation of STEM leaders.
A Spark of Curiosity
Hiral Ramesh Rathod, a 15-year-old student from Agrasen High School in Pune, had always been curious about the world around her. As a young student with a growing interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), she sought opportunities to learn more. Her chance came when she discovered the STEM Innovation Learning Centre’s summer camp. This program is designed to inspire and educate students interested in these fields. With a genuine eagerness to explore and learn, Hiral enthusiastically expressed her interest in attending the camp.
Stepping into the Unknown
Hiral’s journey began with curiosity, but it also came with a challenge-stepping out of her comfort zone and immersing herself in an unfamiliar learning environment. Like many adolescents, she was accustomed to classroom-based learning, where theoretical knowledge was the primary focus. The idea of hands-on learning, experimenting and exploring STEM concepts in a practical setting seemed both exciting and overwhelming.
“I was nervous at first,” Hiral shared. “I had never been exposed to STEM in such a hands-on way. I was not sure what to expect, but I knew I had to give it a try.”
My challenge was not just adjusting to a new way of learning, but also dealing with self-doubt. I kept wondering, ‘Would I be able to grasp these complex concepts quickly?’ and ‘Can I do well in a setting where I need to experiment and sometimes fail before succeeding?’ These were the worries I had when I first joined the camp.’ shared Hiral
Embracing the STEM Summer Camp Experience
From day one, the camp’s immersive and supportive environment put her at ease. Surrounded by CYDA mentors who were passionate about STEM, Hiral found herself encouraged to dive into hands-on activities that bridged the gap between theory and practice. The mentors focused not just on the “right” answers, but on the process of exploration, experimentation, and discovery. This shift in mindset allowed her to view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles to overcome.
“The camp was a safe space for learning,” Hiral reflected. “I was encouraged to try new things, make mistakes, and learn from them without fear of failure. It was different from school, where mistakes are often seen as something to avoid.”
With the freedom to explore and experiment, she tackled various STEM challenges, each one more engaging than the last. From building simple machines to understanding the basics of coding, Hiral found herself captivated by the endless possibilities these fields had to offer. The hands-on activities helped her make real-world connections to the academic knowledge she had previously learnt in class. Through interactive lessons, she gained a deeper understanding of science and technology and discovered how these fields can be used to solve everyday problems.
The Turning Point: Discovering a Passion for STEM
One of the most significant turning points in Hiral’s journey came when she was introduced to the concept of problem-solving. Unlike traditional classroom settings, where students are often given problems with predefined solutions, the camp encouraged her to approach problems with creativity and critical thinking. This shift in approach enabled her to develop essential problem-solving skills, which she could apply to various real-world situations.
Throughout the camp, Hiral participated in collaborative projects with her peers, which allowed her to engage in teamwork and share ideas. This collaborative environment helped Hiral build meaningful connections with others who shared her enthusiasm for STEM. She learnt how to work with others, solve problems as a team, and communicate effectively-all of which are crucial skills in both academic and professional settings.
Confidence and Ambition for the Future
By the end of the summer camp, Hiral had gained more than just technical knowledge. She had developed a new sense of confidence and determination. Her experience at the camp left a lasting impact, sparking a desire to pursue further studies and potentially a career in STEM. The hands-on learning, problem-solving challenges, and exposure to new ideas ignited a passion for STEM that she had never fully realized before.
Hiral’s journey from a curious student to an empowered young learner is a testament to the transformative power of immersive learning experiences. Her experience highlights how hands-on exposure to STEM, combined with mentorship and peer collaboration, can help students build the confidence and skills they need to succeed. She is now more motivated than ever to continue exploring STEM subjects and take on new challenges.
The Lasting Impact of Immersive Learning
Hiral’s journey also highlighted the crucial role of mentorship and peer relationships in fostering curiosity and enabling students to realise their full potential. Her success serves as a reminder that with the right opportunities, adolescents can discover new passions, develop crucial problem-solving skills, and be empowered to create positive change in the world around them.
