Baylor CityLab Brings Waco-Area High School Students to Campus for Interactive STEM Experiences
On Monday, May 4, Baylor’s campus became the scene of an unexpected “zombie outbreak”—at least for a day of hands-on scientific discovery.
Sixty-three high school students and twelve teachers from Waco High, University High, and La Vega High were immersed in a creative, lab-based experience that blended science with storytelling. As part of the simulation, students investigated the “infection” by analyzing DNA gels, working with chemical solutions, synthesizing aspirin, and measuring iodine reaction rates in Baylor’s BSB teaching laboratories.
Guiding them through this experience were nearly 50 Baylor undergraduate and graduate students, who served as mentors throughout the day. These mentors led campus tours, introduced core concepts in DNA and chemistry, and provided hands-on instruction in molecular biology, organic chemistry, and general chemistry labs—bringing classroom science to life in meaningful and engaging ways.
This experience is part of Baylor CityLab, a science education initiative launched last year to introduce Waco-area high school students to STEM through immersive, one-day laboratory programs. CityLab not only sparks curiosity and excitement among high school participants, but also creates valuable opportunities for Baylor students to develop as educators—practicing effective teaching strategies and communication through interactive lessons and guided laboratory instruction.
This year’s CityLab was the result of a remarkable collaboration across campus, including the Office of Engaged Learning, the Departments of Biology and Chemistry, and the School of Education. It also featured strong involvement from student organizations such as SACNAS, BURST, TriBeta, and PyPhD, along with dedicated contributions from laboratory faculty and staff.
By the end of the day, the “zombie” outbreak had been successfully contained—thanks to science, teamwork, and a bit of creative problem-solving. Students, faculty, and staff celebrated their success with Dr Pepper ice cream floats, the perfect (and delicious) “antidote” to close out a day of discovery.