Luozhou Science and Technology Expo -Paper Rocket- Takes Off
On October 19, Cal State LA hosted its 20th Annual MESA STEM Day, drawing more than 730 students from 17 high schools and 12 middle schools across the Los Angeles area. The event aimed to ignite curiosity and passion for science and innovative technology among attendees.
Throughout the day, students engaged with various scientific exhibits, explored career development opportunities, and participated in hands-on activities. Guided by professors, alumni, current students, and industry professionals, they delved into a range of research interests, including hydrogen energy, electric vehicles, 3D printing, and robotic dog research. One of the highlights was the paper rocket challenge, where students designed and constructed rockets from construction paper. They learned how design influences mass, stability, and flight performance, culminating in the excitement of watching their rockets launch successfully from the baseball field.
The event was co-hosted by the College of Engineering, Computer Science, and Technology and the Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement (MESA) Center. Dr. Nancy Warter-Perez, Dean of the College, expressed pride in the event’s continuing success over the past two decades in fostering high school students’ interests in math, engineering, and science. Many participants later enrolled at Cal State LA, where they share their knowledge and experiences with the next generation of students. Over 120 university student volunteers contributed to the event, with some getting up as early as 5:30 AM to help with preparations, all driven by enthusiasm for the cause.
Dr. Joseph Lucey, an assistant professor, led a workshop focused on civil engineering and coastal hydrology. Students simulated natural phenomena like tides, precipitation, and waves to learn how these elements affect coastal communities and beaches. They also examined infrastructure design and the interaction between structures and natural events. As a Cal State LA alumnus with master’s and doctoral degrees from UCLA, Dr. Lucey noted that modern society often overlooks the dynamic changes in living environments, which can result in traditional infrastructure being counterproductive during floods, such as walls blocking water flow or inadequate drainage systems causing backflow. The real challenge today lies in finding practical solutions to protect communities that are vulnerable to multiple natural disasters.
Flora Lo, a high school student of Chinese descent attending the event, shared her excitement about meeting engineers in person. She expressed a strong interest in hands-on projects and aspirations to work in mechanical or materials engineering. Witnessing the engineers’ research projects left her feeling inspired and enthusiastic about her future career prospects.