Today, the HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students enjoyed attending a presentation by Robert Diaz, the Senior Director of the Title III HIS STEM ACCESS Project Grant at Broward College. During the session, Robert introduced the students to the diverse range of programs, degrees, and classes in Immersive Technology offered at Broward College. 

Robert brought two virtual reality headsets for the students to experience to enhance their understanding. The first was the familiar Oculus VR headgear, while the second was the Microsoft Halo Lens2. The students were captivated by the immersive experiences offered by the Halo Lens2, which enabled them to explore a whole new realm. 

Robert also shared with the students about the widespread applications of Virtual Reality in various industries, such as medicine, construction, and energy management, including handling radioactive waste. He emphasized that these VR Headgear were no longer solely regarded as gaming devices but as valuable tools employed in different fields to create informative content that greatly benefitted those industries. 

Each student had the opportunity to use both the Oculus and the Microsoft Halo Lens2. They collaborated and supported one another whenever someone faced challenges. Ryan, for instance, assisted Vincent in maneuvering a virtual plane using the Halo Lens2. Many students expressed keen interest in this technology and engaged Robert in further discussions regarding the Immersive Technology Program at Broward College. In response, Nicolas inquired about the program’s requirements since he was interested in pursuing this after high school graduation. 

Robert gladly shared with the students that Broward College is an Open Access College, meaning applicants are not required to take the SAT examination. This information heightened the excitement among the students, who eagerly anticipated learning more about the program at Broward College. In the coming year, the teachers plan to arrange a half-day field trip to provide the students with a more immersive experience at the college. 

A heartfelt thank you to Robert for graciously sharing the information and the equipment with the students. His visit has undoubtedly sparked curiosity and enthusiasm within the HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. community. 

Leading up to Mother’s Day, the HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. teachers designed the lesson plans to teach their students valuable life skills and prepare them to surprise their mothers with thoughtful presents. The lesson involved buying a card, a box of chocolates, and a plant to give to their mothers on Mother’s Day. In addition, the students had the opportunity to practice several essential skills, including budgeting, using gift cards for payments, visiting the post office to mail out their cards, shopping, and caring for plants.

First, the students headed to Publix for their Community-Based Instruction (CBI) field trip, where they bought Mother’s Day cards for less than $7.00 each. After purchasing the cards, they returned to class to write and sign personalized messages. The next day, the CBI took students to a nearby post office, where they mailed the cards via the U.S.P.S.

The following day, the students went to the mall to buy a box of chocolates. The students were given a budget of $18 each to select chocolates they thought their mothers would enjoy the most. For the final CBI session of the week, the group visited Home Depot. Each student had a $20 budget to buy a flowering plant as part of their Mother’s Day presents. During this activity, the students learned about the plants’ specific requirements, such as their need for sunlight or shade, and had to decide which plant would suit their home best.

Throughout the week, the students’ enthusiasm kept growing. They were so excited as they eagerly anticipated presenting the gifts they had personally selected and bought for the most important woman in their lives – their mother!

On this Mother’s Day, we extend our warmest wishes to all the mothers of our HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S., College Mentors, and Social Activities Program participants.

Happy Mother’s Day!

For this week’s Career Series, the HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students were delighted to have the opportunity to connect with Digital Artist Mike Spring via Zoom. Given the students’ keen interest in pursuing Digital Art as a career path, Liz Falk, HDS Foundation Program Manager, secured a visit from Mike to share insights on his journey toward becoming a successful Digital Artist. 

During his presentation to the students, Mike shared his passion for drawing as a child, but he never imagined it would lead to a career. However, when working at an engineering firm, he transitioned from sketching bridges, runways, and roads to utilizing computer software. During this transition, the world of digital art was revealed to him, and he became fascinated. 

He shared his diverse experiences in Digital Art with the students. This included working for Disney, television, movies, gaming, and much more. Mike is a professor at the LA Film School, where he educates aspiring artists about the world of Digital Art. His work captivated the students, and they asked excellent questions during the presentation. 

Q&A: When asked about his favorite job, Mike explained to Matt that his previous jobs had brought unique aspects to his work, making it difficult for him to choose. Similarly, when Kaitlyn asked about the typical salary for a Digital Artist, Mike responded that it varies depending on one’s experience level in the field. 

The HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students were grateful for Mike’s willingness to share his journey and incredible work with them. We look forward to having Mike join us for another presentation next year during our Career Series.