Posted: September 10, 2024
The Pennsylvania 4-H STEM program recently launched a computer science ambassador team comprised of Aadit Shah, Arush Dubey, and Ronak Suchindra, 4-H members from Chester County.
Left to right: Ronak Suchindra, Aadit Shah, and Arush Dubey
As part of the science, technology, engineering, and math initiative, this team will teach and lead computer science learning opportunities. Here’s a bit about each member:
- Aadit Shah participates in 4-H robotics clubs and enjoys riding his bike and playing soccer. “I want students to be more interested in STEM fields such as robotics and engineering and would like to teach youth about future technologies such as AI and machine learning in a simple way,” he said.
- Arush Dubey likes working with computers and playing soccer. “I would like to spread STEM to more people and add more diversity to the field along with adding more leadership roles,” he said.
- Ronak Suchindra enjoys 3D printing and teaching youth through his nonprofit organization, Kids Connect. As an ambassador, he aims to provide youth with new experiences and resources so they can continue to discover and build on their passions.
“We began recruiting computer science ambassadors as part of the Computer Science Pathways grant from Google and the National 4-H Council,” said Amanda Kanouff, 4-H youth development educator with Penn State Extension.
This grant provided funds to assist with programming expenses and equipped ambassadors with tools they can use for computer science programming efforts. The teens also received training at the 2023 Ignite by 4-H conference in Washington, D.C., where 4-H members ages 14-19 explored topics and career pathways related to STEM.
This summer, the computer science ambassadors hosted day camps on topics such as 3D printing, programmable robots, circuits and even ice cream making. In addition, Dubey is launching a new STEM club with monthly meetings.
The ambassadors also serve as STEM State Project Ambassadors, bringing youth perspectives to statewide programs. Mentored by 4-H state specialists, they provide input on events, curricula and initiatives.
Administered in Pennsylvania by Penn State Extension, 4-H is a nonformal educational youth-development program of the U.S. Department of Agriculture that helps young people develop knowledge and skills to become capable, caring and contributing citizens. To find your local program, visit the Pennsylvania 4-H website.
