Florida State University STARS Alliance traveled to Orlando, FL to spend time with the Florida Chapter of the Technology Student Association (TSA). TSA consists of middle and high school students who are interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). A continued partnership with TSA, the FSU STARS students volunteered as judges for the state competition. The TSA members worked all school year perfecting their projects and mastering their skills to be able to compete against the best of the best on the state level.
Some of the events FSU STARS helped to judge include:
- Digital Photography
- Music Production
- Essays on Technology
- Medical Technology Issues
- Video Game Design
STARS student Martin Sung elaborated on the benefits of being a judge, “Judging at TSA was a humbling and inspiring experience. I was amazed by the young talent and passion demonstrated from future inventors and innovators. I truly believe that TSA students hold the keys to solving the problems of tomorrow.”
FSU STARS works with TSA as part of its nationally recognized organization’s mission: increase awareness for women and minorities in STEM.
STARS member, Danielle Cuccaro, said that she “was very impressed with the TSA students. I am glad I had the opportunity to meet and judge such talented and hardworking students.”
According to FSU Associate Dean Ebe Randeree, “Judging at such events helps the University to better prepare for the future of STEM in higher education; more importantly, it allows us to develop FSU as a choice for these STEM students.”
FSU Alumna and FITC Communication Coordinator Chelsea Thorn was also part of the event. She said that “It was great meeting such a talented group of young students at the TSA College Fair and to see that Florida schools compete successfully in the STEM market.” Thorn said, “Many of them expressed interest in pursuing a degree in IT, computer science, or engineering.”
FSU STARS members that participated were:
Danielle Cuccaro (UG- ICT)
Joey Cardenas (UG- IT)
Russ Hill Jr. (UG – ICT)
Courtney Lisenbee (UG- Mass Media)
Kelby Mahoney (UG- ICT)
Milton Ramer (UG- IT)
Chelsea Schneider (UG- ICT)
Rachel Roberson (UG- Chemical Engineering)
Shelby Schlembach (UG- ICT)
Meredith Robinson (UG- ICT)
Martin Sung (UG- IT)
Madison Bellflower (UG- Biology)
Rachel Bryson (UG- IT)