Bon Voyage to Ailey Crow
May 2011
Long-time CRS volunteer Ailey Crow has found that engaging third graders is not unlike presenting at conferences—though the latter requires fewer dramatic pauses and less dry ice.
During her 5 years as a biophysics PhD student Crow has made novel contributions to the field of cell mechanics and has left an impression on countless elementary school students through her monthly phase transition lessons as a CIC volunteer.
“Going from the basement lab to being surrounded by 8 and 9 year olds who are really excited about science and what you’re talking about helps you feel like you’re making a difference and inspiring them,” she says.
Long-time CRS volunteer Ailey Crow has found that engaging third graders is not unlike presenting at conferences—though the latter requires fewer dramatic pauses and less dry ice.
During her 5 years as a biophysics PhD student Crow has made novel contributions to the field of cell mechanics and has left an impression on countless elementary school students through her monthly phase transition lessons as a CIC volunteer.
“Going from the basement lab to being surrounded by 8 and 9 year olds who are really excited about science and what you’re talking about helps you feel like you’re making a difference and inspiring them,” she says.
Standing in front of a classroom, she says, is not so different from standing in front of a scientific poster. Crow has mastered the art of explaining material in a manner that engages her audience, whatever their age. “Adults may be more difficult to read than 8 or 9 year olds, but it’s important to be able to tell when your concept isn’t getting across.”
While a crowning moment of Crow’s academic career may be her hard-earned thesis, a highlight of her time volunteering was when an 8 year old asked for her autograph. And admiration is a two-way street. “Seeing how quickly the kids learn and how excited they are about science, it’s rejuvenating for when we go back and hit the bench again.”
Her commitment also comes from being a research scientist. “A lot of our funding comes from the government. Having some form of paying back to the community is important, and science education is a great way to do that,” she said.
When Crow and her team visit a classroom, they bring not only scientific know-how, but also test tubes, dry ice, and balloons that cause 3rd grade excitement to brim over. Despite the details & logistics, Crow never loses sight of the larger picture, the greater significance, of her lessons.
“The hope is that getting them excited even in elementary school will carry them through to be scientists in the future,” she said. “I’ve always thought that was more important than the individual concepts.”
This dedicated CIC volunteer encourages her peers to go to schools. “For new people, it definitely helps to be incorporated in a pre-existing team even if you eventually want to branch out,” she advises. “Be flexible. They’re kids; allow them to be creative and ask questions. Just roll with it.”
With over 40 lessons under her belt, a fan club of elementary school students, and a PhD, Crow is excited about her future. It will likely involve continued immersion in science and teaching. There may or may not be dry ice.