3M Hosts Student Career Day

3M's Team Africa and The African American Society hosted a special career day event on February 22 for students of the Volunteers of America of Minnesota Education Center in celebration of Black History Month. Geared especially toward students with interests in chemistry, physics, engineering, math and computers, the theme of the event was entitled, "Finding Your Passion."  A majority of the 38 students who attended were from our English language learners (ELL) programs and several were from our Secondary Alternative program.

Below is a report from Secondary Alternative School Director, Aaron Carper, who organized and prepared students for the event, as well as accompanied students while at the event. 

"...The 3M speakers were incredible. Five African and African-American scientists each spent thirty-minutes outlining the paths to success in their lives, including hardships, challenges and the need for attending college and having mentors. One speaker shared his story of going to college in Kenya and in Europe, and then coming to the United States in hopes of a better life. The relationships and connections to our attending students were immediate and heart-felt.

There were tours of 3M's Innovation Center and presentations by the 3M Wizards who demonstrated principles of gas and pressure with liquid nitrogen, the Law of Thermodynamics and the Conservation of Energy. Not only did we have an incredible lunch, but there was also time for students to talk with the scientists at their lunch tables to ask more personal questions. 

Upon returning to school, the ELL students immediately bombarded the math and physics/chemistry teachers with questions resulting from their experience at 3M. What's more, students from the Secondary Alternative program were actively planning for more involvement with 3M, such as mentoring and shadowing for juniors and seniors.

Thanks to 3M (including Gene Washington) for this incredible opportunity.

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