Soaring High: How STEM Stars Inspired Annabella’s Passion for Science

Annabella, a 9-year-old fourth grader from Pittsburgh Public School Carmalt, shines in the Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Stars program. “Being part of STEM Stars has been amazing,” she said. “I’ve learned about different STEM topics and jobs, which helped improve my science grade since the program covered things I was learning in class.” Annabella also valued the opportunity to visit various colleges and explore what was offered.  

Her favorite experience was visiting the Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics during a Saturday Academy session, where she got to tour private jets from Corporate Air. “Knowing that some important celebrities fly in planes like these was super exciting!” she shared. This unique opportunity wouldn’t have been possible without the STEM Stars program. 

When asked if she’d consider a career in aviation, Annabella replied that she would definitely keep it in mind as she goes through middle and high school. The Young Women’s Christian Association of Greater Pittsburgh (YWCA) offered these enriching experiences thanks to the United Way’s funding, which covered the STEM curriculum, staffing and transportation for Saturday programming.