A new Approach to outreach activities for 5 and 6 VWO students
On Thursday 28th November 2024, TU Delft hosted an event for secondary school students from 5th and 6th year VWO, welcoming participants from four schools in Amsterdam Nieuw-West. This event, organized in collaboration between the Science Centre and the Diversity & Inclusion Office, aimed to connect young students with our university and assist them in making their future study choice.
Expanding outreach for STEM Education
Around 100 students, accompanied by their mentors (deans and team leaders), had the opportunity to learn about our university and study programmes while engaging in hands-on technical activities.
The event began with an introduction to TU Delft, where students received practical information about admissions and an overview of the available study programmes. In the second part of the event, students participated in practical assignments related to engineering and design, such as working with LEGO mindstorms. The programme concluded with a campus tour and speed-dating sessions with current TU Delft students. These sessions offered students a chance to ask questions, share their concerns, and gain insights that could help them make informed decisions about their future studies.
During the speed-dating sessions, TU Delft students played an important role as role models, providing inspiration and a glimpse into university life, particularly for those interested in STEM fields.
Role models for students with a bicultural background
Recognizing the high representation of bicultural students among the visiting schools, the event was tailored to meet their specific needs. This was reflected not only in the diversity of cultural backgrounds of the TU Delft students who facilitated the sessions, as well as in the content of the program. Given the diversity of backgrounds and experiences of our student assistants, they were able to provide more targeted information, understand their needs due to their lived experiences and support students holistically with their concerns in their decision-making process. They have been inspirational role models encouraging participants to consider STEM studies and to overcome challenges associated with their educational choices.
This initiative aligns with TU Delft’s commitment to fostering greater diversity within its student population, as well as ensure that students regardless their background have the chance to be in touch with our programs. Looking ahead, TU Delft plans to approach this outreach more systematically, with a focus on South Holland (particularly Rotterdam), given its multicultural demographics. This effort aims to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to experience TU Delft’s programmes and receive the support they need.