On April 16, 2024, twelve 6th and 7th-grade students, aged 11-12, from two public primary schools in Warsaw and Kałuszyn, participated in an IGNITE Event. The event featured Anna Krzyżanowska, a scientist and electronic engineer at the Nanotechnology and Microanalyses Center at Denmark’s Technology Institute.
Krzyżanowska captivated the students with her story. She shared how, as a young girl, she was fascinated by technology but preferred humanistic subjects, especially history, at school. Her math teacher sparked her interest in scientific subjects by showing how they explain the workings of the universe. Although Krzyżanowska initially wanted to become a doctor, a car accident changed her perspective, leading her to study electronics to help people on a broader scale.
She shared her experiences as one of the few women in her electronics program, often facing unpleasant comments from professors. However, she discovered that being a woman in a male-dominated field was a unique asset, offering a different approach to the subject.
Krzyżanowska explained the concept of nanotechnology using visuals to show how incredibly small nano objects are compared to a human hair. She highlighted the future potential of nanotechnology in various fields, noting its use of flexible, lightweight, and eco-friendly materials like copper and silver ink printed on plastic or organic thin layers.
She recounted exciting projects at her institute, including special clothing for astronauts to measure vital parameters and shirts for football players to monitor pulse and other metrics during games. Krzyżanowska emphasized that she never dreamed of being a scientist but finds great satisfaction in her work. She reassured the students that being a scientist can be fun and creative, and she enjoys normal activities like biking and hanging out with friends.
In her summary, Ms. Krzyżanowska stressed that technology is the future and can be both fun and innovative. She noted the rapid development in nanotechnology since her last presentation two years ago, highlighting its dynamic nature.
A big thank you to Anna Krzyżanowska for sharing her fascinating story and insights. Special thanks to Educators Małgorzata Baszczak and Krystyna Wasiluk for coordinating and encouraging the students, and a heartfelt thanks to Cathi Rodgveller for her constant support.
After attending this event:
100%
of students are interested in STEM
83%
of students know more about STEM career choices and the benefits of working in a STEM field
67%
of students feel more confident in pursuing STEM
75%
of students gained perspective and feel more hopeful about the future
Here’s what the students thought of the event:
“Today’s meeting allowed me to learn more about STEM. The volunteer also said that no matter what industry we will work, we always be a woman and she told us that work can be fun. Thank you very much to you for today’s event. The way you told us about nanotechnology was very interesting.” – 6th Grade IGNITE Student
“I learned a lot about nanotechnology. You proved that work in technology can be interesting and cool.” – 6th Grade IGNITE Student
“This event showed me that nanotechnology is very interesting and fun.” – 7th Grade IGNITE Student
About IGNITE Program Events:
Virtual or In-Person IGNITE Program Events empower women in STEM careers to connect directly with students by sharing their academic and professional journeys. IGNITE Students are inspired by hearing stories they can relate to, and Q&A discussions help break down stereotypes that hold them back from engaging in STEM classes and careers.
About IGNITE Worldwide:
IGNITE Worldwide is a 501(c)3 nonprofit STEM education organization that aims to change gender and racial equity in STEM permanently and systematically. We work directly with teachers during the school day to provide programming that promotes gender equity and representation in STEM academics and careers. Through our award-winning program, IGNITE provides engaging, hands-on events that connect students with STEM professionals from industry leaders from around the world. Learn more at www.igniteworldwide.org.