During my second gap year, I worked as a Student Experience Instructor at the PAST Foundation, a non-profit based in Columbus, Ohio. Standing for Partnering Anthropology with Science and Technology, the organization invites the world to design, construct, and engage in experience that link learning to life through transdisciplinary partnerships with communities, companies, and local educators. 
 
While with the organization, I spearheaded the development of a STEM learning library funded by grant money from Battelle. The purpose of the project was to build STEM identity in students of all backgrounds in Central Ohio by allowing teachers to borrow otherwise-inaccessable technologies, such as 3D printers, programmable robots, and more. I spent time designing easily repeatable and culturally relevant programming that minimized the resources educators had to supply themselves before leading and testing the efficacy of the activities in the classroom. In doing so, I helped model the shift away from lecture-based STEM education, and towards problem based learning. 
 
In addition to presenting the project to educators from around the state, I shared my ideas with community leaders, such as the CEO of Battelle, and help foster partnerships with entities such as the Columbus Metropolitan Library, Bath and Body Works, and more. I also participated in and led professional development sessions to increase comfort with implementing problem based learning in the classroom. 
 
From my time at PAST, I found a passion for education, and I continue to work in the field as a consultant.