Volunteer Tutoring

Community Section

Background

We have traveled to Hegang, one of China’s northernmost cities, to engage in a teaching support initiative. The education system there faces severe limitations, with schools only able to offer the most basic courses mandated by the state. When speaking with the students, I was struck by their responses when I asked about their aspirations for the future. Most had no clear direction; their answers typically revolved around doing whatever their parents suggested, taking over family businesses, becoming homemakers, or working in local factories.

"Let's Do Something"

I sympathized with and understood their perspectives; it’s not their fault. Without access to a comprehensive range of subjects, how could they explore their own potential? This motivated me to guide them in discovering fields and knowledge they might enjoy. Together, we conducted physics and chemistry experiments and took on various hands-on projects. Personally, I introduced them to information technology, bringing along a variety of sensors—infrared, humidity, pressure, collision, and optical sensors, among others. My goal was to inspire each of them to use a sensor they liked to create a small project that could help them in their daily lives or simply be enjoyable to work on. Projects ranged from line-following robots and door access alarms to pedometers and smart trash cans.

Reflection

This experience was incredibly fulfilling, and I was thrilled to see genuine joy on each student’s face. As we left, many shared new ambitions with me, wanting to become scientists, engineers, and even some aspiring to make a difference like I had. I’m grateful that we were able to spark their excitement and open a door to future possibilities.