MIT

What's happening: Ramsey High School Senior Bridget Heffernan was selected to attend the New Jersey Governor’s School of Engineering & Technology this past summer. The program invites rising seniors to study at Rutgers University School of Engineering.

Students collaborate on a novel research project which is showcased in a conference-style final paper and presentation during a culminating research symposium. The program also includes workshops, site visits to local corporations, and activities with professors, professionals, and peers from throughout the state.

During this past summer’s program, Bridget’s team wrote a paper titled, “A Novel Approach to Facilitate Peripheral Nerve Regeneration: An Electrospun Conduit, Hydrogel Filling, and Internal Microchannels.”

Fast forward: With her group’s work selected, Bridget traveled to MIT in early October to present their findings at the 2023 Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers MIT Undergraduate Research Technology Conference.

What they’re saying: “We were so proud to nominate Bridget for the New Jersey Governor's School of Engineering and Technology program at Rutgers University. She was accepted from among an incredible applicant pool of the most talented and motivated high school students from across the state!” -Andrew Reitter, RHS Counselor

Why it matters: High school students like Bridget who venture beyond the traditional classroom are embarking on a journey of continued growth and discovery. Learning that takes place outside the classroom, whether through internships, volunteer work, travel, or independent projects, offers an opportunity to apply knowledge in real-world settings. Moving beyond the classroom walls, students are creating their own opportunities to cultivate a lifelong love for learning.

We are so incredibly proud! Congratulations, Bridget! 🎉