Clarkson University Partners With Local Schools to Host 128 Students for STARTScience@Clarkson
Clarkson University partnered with five local school districts Tuesday, Feb 10 to host 128 North Country high school students for STARTScience@Clarkson, a networking and career exploration event designed to connect students with opportunities in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
Students from Madrid-Waddington, Massena, Northern Adirondack, Potsdam and Watertown central schools gathered on campus for a full day of hands-on activities, campus exploration and conversations with women working in STEM fields.
Organized by Clarkson’s Institute for STEM Education, the program focused on building pathways between local schools and the university while helping students envision their futures in technical and scientific careers.
The event was held in partnership with the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry’s (IUPAC) Global Women’s Breakfast, a worldwide initiative that promotes equity, connection and belonging in STEM disciplines. STARTScience@Clarkson joined more than 449 events across 78 countries participating in this year’s Global Women’s Breakfast, linking local outreach efforts to a global movement advancing women in science and innovation.
“STARTScience@Clarkson is about building community and showing students that there is a place for them in STEM,” said Leigha Burkhalter of the Institute for STEM Education, who organized the event. “By bringing together students, faculty and professionals, we’re helping young people see that their voices, ideas and ambitions matter.”
A highlight of the day was a Women in STEM panel featuring professionals from North Country businesses and partner organizations. Panelists shared insights into their career journeys, discussed challenges they have faced and offered advice they wish they had received in high school. The discussion underscored the importance of resilience, mentorship and pursuing personal passions.
Students also participated in interactive learning sessions connecting STEM concepts to real-world careers. A guided tour of Clarkson’s Hill Campus introduced participants to academic programs, research labs and student life. In a collaborative workshop, students worked in small groups to map out hypothetical STEM career pathways, reinforcing the idea that career trajectories are often shaped by evolving interests, skill development and new opportunities.
Throughout the day, themed activities and door prizes highlighted notable figures and events in science history, including Pi Day, Amelia Earhart and astronaut Mae Jemison.
STARTScience@Clarkson reflects Clarkson University’s ongoing commitment to expanding access to STEM education and strengthening partnerships with regional schools.
For more information about STARTScience@Clarkson and future STEM outreach initiatives, contact the Clarkson University Institute for STEM Education at stem@clarkson.edu.
