Outreach Programs
From virtual workshops to hackathons, providing comprehensive STEM education and mentorship opportunities for Orange County students
Serving elementary schools, community centers, and families across Orange County
Our Mission
OCSEF's outreach programs are designed to democratize access to quality STEM education and break down barriers that prevent students from participating in science fairs and research competitions.
We believe that every student, regardless of their school's resources or their family's background, should have the opportunity to explore their scientific curiosity and develop critical thinking skills through hands-on research experiences.
Our programs reach students in underserved communities, providing them with the tools, knowledge, and inspiration needed to succeed in STEM fields.
Jump to a Program
Our Outreach Programs
Comprehensive outreach initiatives bringing STEM education directly to schools and communities throughout Orange County
Academy 101
FREE virtual workshop series designed for students in grades 6-12 with no prior science or engineering fair experience. This introductory course provides step-by-step guidance on conducting successful science and engineering projects.
Program Features:
- Introductory course on conducting science/engineering projects
- Saturday virtual sessions for easy accessibility
- Step-by-step project development guidance
- No prior experience required
- Completely free participation for all students
- Access comprehensive video tutorials on our Resources page
Ask a Scientist/Engineer
Informal Saturday sessions where students in grades 6-12 can receive personalized guidance from experienced scientists and engineers on their science, engineering, math, or computer science projects.
Program Features:
- One-on-one mentoring opportunities
- Project troubleshooting and problem-solving help
- Expert advice on research methodology
- Q&A sessions with STEM professionals
- Support for all project stages from idea to presentation
High School Research Conference
Annual research conference in partnership with Chapman University where high school students who participated in OCSEF share their science fair projects and engage with university professors and undergraduate students.
Program Features:
- Present research to university professors
- Engage with Chapman undergraduate students
- Professional presentation experience
- STEM career exploration opportunities
- Annual event at Chapman University
Hackathon
High School Hackathon at Discovery Cube - an intensive two-day coding competition where students work in teams to solve real-world problems through programming and innovation.
Program Features:
- April 26-27, 2025 at Discovery Cube
- Team-based coding competition
- Real-world problem solving challenges
- Prizes and recognition for winners
- Mentorship from industry professionals
Student Ambassadors
Leadership program for high school students who previously participated in OCSEF, providing opportunities to give back to the community through mentoring, volunteering, and content creation.
Program Features:
- Volunteer at in-person OCSEF events
- Create social media content and outreach materials
- Mentor younger students in their projects
- Develop leadership and communication skills
- Earn community service hours
Coding Workshop
Summer Saturday sessions where middle school students learn Python programming basics from high school Student Ambassadors, gaining valuable coding skills for science fair projects and beyond.
Program Features:
- Python programming basics for beginners
- Taught by experienced Student Ambassadors
- Project-based learning approach
- Integration with science fair projects
- Hands-on coding experience and practice
Partner With Us
Join our mission to expand STEM education access throughout Orange County