Quantum science may operate at the tiniest scales of the universe, but its potential to reshape our world is anything but small. This summer, George Mason University hosted the Pathways to Quantum Immersion Program, preparing high school students for careers in the rapidly emerging field of quantum science.
The program welcomed rising seniors from across the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area and Virginia for an immersive, two-part experience consisting of a two-week virtual course covering the fundamentals of quantum science, followed by an in-person week centered at the George Mason Fairfax Campus. During the in-person experience students engaged with hands-on learning and saw how quantum concepts are already shaping the world around them. They also visited leading institutions in research, technology, and policy.
“Before this experience, I always associated ‘quantum’ with quantum physics,” said participant Benjamin Fu. “But I’ve learned that quantum technologies power many of the applications and systems we rely on every day.”
The program is led by Jessica Rosenberg, professor of Physics and Astronomy and director of education at George Mason’s Quantum Science and Engineering Center, andNancy Holincheck,associate professor in the College of Education and Human Development and associate director of the Center for Social Equity Through Science Education.