The middle school cohorts of the Pedrozzi Young Scholars were visited by Dr. Monica Moya, a biomedical engineer researcher from Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL). Monica is a volunteer for the Pedrozzi Foundation, serving on the Outreach Committee and the Pedrozzi Young Scholars Working Group.
Monica spent some time sharing about the work she does at LLNL. Monica is leading a team that is doing cutting edge research in 3D printing using biological components. Monica told the Scholars about the path that led her to become an engineer. She shared about her childhood and upbringing. Many of the Scholars raised their hands when Monica asked if anyone’s parents used to live in another country. Monica shared that her parents came to the U.S. from Mexico. Her parents weren’t very familiar with the school system. Monica was able to form relationships with people around her as she navigated the school system and continued on her educational path. Monica shared a quote with the Scholars: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” She encouraged the Scholars to support each other and work with others to achieve goals.
The Pedrozzi Young Scholars then participated in an activity related to the work Monica does. The Scholars created model lungs from a 2-liter bottle, balloons, and straws. Then, the Scholars made their own masks to breathe clean air. The Scholars had many materials to choose from to make their masks; they were very creative with the masks that they made. The Scholars loved participating in a hands-on activity. They also enjoyed hearing from Dr. Monica Moya as they can relate to her story. Thank you, Monica, for supporting the Pedrozzi Young Scholars!
