Calumet College of St. Joseph (CCSJ) welcomed Mrs. Mandi Grecula and 40 sophomores from Hammond Science and Technology (HAST) to campus on Thursday to participate in chemistry experiments designed to supplement their Integrated Chemistry and Physics Class. The students performed a number of laboratory experiments highlighting chemical reactions and periodic table trends.
“It is so great to see students back on track after the pandemic,” said Grecula, “These students are so eager to learn and this is a great way to get them interested not only in chemistry, but in college. To give them a hands-on experience like this excites them. It is a gateway to learning more about science.”
The experiments, which build on textbook material previously presented to students, were designed by Mr. David Harnish, CCSJ Coordinator Biomedical and Health Sciences Department Laboratories. “These began as high school labs, but I have modified them for a college setting. They are a great introduction to chemistry.”
Students learned about the 5 types of chemical reactions (synthesis, decomposition, single replacement, double replacement and combustion) and how these processes drive all changes in nature. They experimented with different compounds and elements, exploring how mixing them together or exposing them to fire transforms them. Many of the chemicals used are found in household cleaning materials and common medicines.
“Having a hands-on experience is a lot of fun,” said HAST sophomore Jalissa Cabello, “It is interesting to learn about the chemical reactions in a laboratory, and it helps me understand which things are safe to mix.”
One experiment mixed slow-to-react materials, and then exposed the new compound to an open fire, creating ball of flame. HAST sophomore Kristopher Lopez said “That was amazing. I like that I can actually do things like this here in the lab. This has been an incredible experience.”
“It is always wonderful to introduce students to the basics of chemistry,” said Dr. Ahmed Lakhani, CCSJ Program Director for Biomedical Science and Mathematics. “It allows them to connect chemistry to their everyday lives. They see what happens in the lab and begin to understand how the world around them works.”
Grecula, Harnish and Lakhani were assisted by teaching assistants Brooklinn Chavez and Alyssa Olson. “Engaging students in ways that a teacher can’t is really rewarding. It’s always a great time.”
Calumet College of St. Joseph is a graduate and undergraduate degree granting institution sponsored by the Missionaries of the Precious Blood and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.