Bringing the Competition Home

It could be tempting to conclude that science is in Syeda Aiman Nadeem’s blood, but the Rutgers–Camden senior would likely have a more complex view on the roles of nature and nurture. While exploring her love of biology at her high school in Pakistan, she frequently found herself at the top of her class in the study of genetics. Today, she dreams of researching RNA and applying her findings to the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and cancer. But as much as she looks forward to a career of life-saving research, Nadeem is also making the most of her college experience. One extracurricular activity that has especially resonated with her is STEM Olympiad, a team event characterized by collaboration, puzzle solving, and fun.

STEM Olympiad uses activities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics to connect students from a variety of majors and backgrounds, Nadeem explained. It’s a friendly competition, with students inside and outside of STEM fields participating.

Nadeem had first participated in STEM Olympiad back in Pakistan, but when she arrived at Rutgers–Camden, she found that the school didn’t have a team. She moved to start a club herself, getting help from Kwangwon Lee, associate professor of biology. She logged on to the Rutgers app to find like-minded students interested in joining; professors Anthony Geneva, Nathan Fried, and Amy Savage also came on board as faculty advisers. With the framework assembled, it was time for the games to begin.

“After forming a solid team, we held several meetings to make sure everyone was on the same page,” Nadeem said. “The fun part began when we designed and tested activities, recruited actors, and marketed the event.” The students and faculty designed puzzles and challenges themed around a crime scene, so Kimberlee Moran, associate professor of chemistry and director of the Rutgers–Camden Forensic Science program, helped set up an engaging and realistic murder mystery to be solved.

“While my original intention was to make the event inclusive of other colleges, we opted to hold the inaugural STEM Olympiad with teams from our own campus,” Nadeem said. “Now, with the upcoming second annual event, we’re excited to broaden our horizons and extend invitations to neighboring colleges. By expanding our reach, we’re not only creating new opportunities but also helping our students make connections beyond our campus.”

Nadeem’s efforts to bring a new event to campus did not go unnoticed; in April of 2023, she received the Chancellor’s Award for Student Engagement at the Diversity, Inclusion, and Civic Engagement (DICE) Awards ceremony. The Rutgers–Camden STEM Olympiad was recognized for its embrace of ethnic diversity and for welcoming students from a variety of academic disciplines.

“It was rewarding to see different majors working together as a team, each bringing their own thoughts and ideas,” Nadeem said. “Non-STEM majors had fun in the world of STEM without feeling singled out, and everyone walked away from the experience having learned something new.”

As Nadeem’s time as an undergraduate nears its end, she has set up the STEM Olympiad for long-term success on campus. Reflecting on the legacy she has created at the university, she also spoke about the impact Rutgers–Camden has made on her.

“There is a strong sense of community and students are provided with abundant opportunities,” Nadeem said. “There’s a unique closeness that allows us to truly thrive. The friendly atmosphere and ample resources for growth set us apart from many other institutions.”

Design: Beatris Santos