Alabama State University’s Summer Engineering Bridge Program recently reached new heights as students launched model rockets they had built. This two-week academic camp is designed to prepare incoming freshmen for the challenges of college-level engineering, providing a hands-on introduction to ASU’s curriculum.
The program, which ran from June 30 to July 18, was led by Dr. Derrick Dean, a professor in ASU’s Biomedical Engineering Department, with support from new faculty members Dr. Abbas Iktikhar and Mr. Rishikesh Pilangad Harikrishnan.
“My favorite part of the camp is seeing the students’ reactions as they watch their rockets launch,” said Dean with a smile as the rockets soared into the sky.
The 14 participants spent their time building and testing model bridges, learning about robotics, working with 3D printing and CAD design, and exploring computer design tools. The activities are all designed to give students a significant head start in ASU’s College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (C-STEM).
"The rocket launch served as a highlight of the program, powerfully demonstrating engineering principles by combining physics, design, and teamwork in a dramatic real-world application," Dean added.
He noted that with dedicated faculty and an innovative curriculum, the Summer Bridge Program is effectively laying the foundation for future Hornet engineers, one successful rocket launch at a time.
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