Empowering Future Scientists: MIT’s Inspiring Breakfast with Young Innovators

On February 14, a gathering of some of the nation’s most talented high school researchers took place in Boston for the annual American Junior Academy of Science (AJAS) conference, coinciding with the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) annual meeting. A highlight of this prestigious event was MIT’s celebrated “Breakfast with Scientists,” which provided students with an exceptional opportunity to interact with leading scientific minds from around the globe.

AJAS Conference and Opening Reception

The AJAS conference kicked off with an opening reception at the MIT Schwarzman College of Computing, where Catherine Drennan, a professor of biology and chemistry, delivered an inspiring keynote address to 162 high school students hailing from 21 states. These delegates were selected through state Academy of Science competitions, earning the opportunity to showcase their research while networking with peers and professionals in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

During breakfast, students had the chance to engage with esteemed scientists, including MIT faculty, Nobel laureates, and industry leaders. They discussed various topics such as research findings, career paths, and the broader implications of scientific discovery.

Mentorship and Collaboration at MIT

Amy Keating, head of MIT’s biology department, shared a table with students ranging from high school juniors to college sophomores. The conversation flowed freely as they explored what it means to be a scientist at a prestigious institution like MIT. When a student expressed apprehension about the competitive nature of research environments, Keating reassured them by stating, “MIT fosters a collaborative spirit rather than a competitive one.”

At another table, Nobel laureate Gary Ruvkun, a former MIT postdoc, shared a light-hearted moment with students as they laughed over a TikTok video they created to illustrate their science fair project. This interaction highlighted the innate curiosity and excitement that fuels scientific discovery at every stage of a research career.

These students are not just participants in science fairs; they are integrating into a broader scientific community. The connections they establish here can significantly influence their careers and future contributions to science. — Donna Gerardi

Donna Gerardi, executive director of the National Association of Academies of Science, emphasized the importance of the AJAS program.

Experiences and Future Aspirations

In addition to breakfast discussions, AJAS delegates engaged in a variety of enriching experiences, including laboratory tours, conference sessions, and hands-on research activities.

Andrew Wesel, a delegate from California, expressed his enthusiasm: “I am thrilled to discuss my research with experts and gain valuable insights on the next steps in my academic journey.”

A key aspect of the AJAS experience was its focus on mentorship and collaboration over competition. At the conclusion of the conference, delegates were officially inducted as lifetime Fellows of the American Junior Academy of Science, joining a prestigious network of scientists and researchers.

MIT’s Commitment to Young Talent

Sponsored by the MIT School of Science and School of Engineering, the breakfast showcased MIT’s long-standing commitment to nurturing young scientific talent. Faculty members encouraged students to consider careers in STEM fields while providing guidance on available pathways.

“It was a joy to interact with such passionate students,” remarked Kristala Prather, head of the Department of Chemical Engineering at MIT. “One memorable moment for me was sitting next to a young woman who is set to join MIT this fall — I’m eager to inspire her to pursue ChemE!”