FRESH Air: Hands-On STEM, Investigating Air Quality and Climate Impact in NYC

July 28-August 1, 2025 Rose Hill

In this distinctive summer STEM program, led by Fordham Physics professor Stephen Holler, students participate in FRESH Air, a Fordham-based citizen science outreach project. During this course, students gain a deep understanding of the connections between climate change, air quality, and health impacts while working with sensors that measure pollution in the air around NYC. As part of this educational experience, students actively engage in constructing sensor platforms, fostering hands-on skills and knowledge that empower them to proactively address environmental concerns.

The goals of this program are for students to:

• Develop a deeper understanding of air quality, its effects on health, and its impact on the community.
• Explore the causes of air pollution and its sources, particularly in their neighborhoods.
• Gain practical experience in building and operating air quality sensor platforms.
• Enhance their knowledge of STEM principles, including microcontrollers and data analysis.
• Promote environmental awareness and a culture of inquiry within their communities.

Skills/Learning Outcomes