The Technology Student Association, or TSA, is an organization for kids in middle and high school who like science, technology, engineering, and math, also called STEM. It has over 300,000 members all across the country. In TSA, students can join fun contests, learn to be leaders, create cool projects, and help out in their communities. This is the first year of TSA at Bowie, and we are the second middle school in Irving ISD to offer it. This expanded professional opportunities in the VILS Lab for students to compete and travel for the competitions while also having a great time and meeting new people.
This year, we had two students who became state champions. Rafael won 1st place in Cybersecurity, and Rocio won 1st place in Promotional Marketing. We were the only school in Irving ISD to win championships this year. Both won a trip to Tennessee in June this summer. Rafael’s contest required him to create a device that separated Bluetooth from Wi-Fi and to make a presentation demonstrating the device in front of the judges. Today, we got the chance to interview Rafael and ask him some questions. We asked him how he felt about getting 1st place in Cybersecurity, and his response was, “Nervous because there were a lot of cameras and they had to be up on stage.” Rafael stated that this whole experience was very fun, and he enjoyed exploring and being with his friends.
“80 minute walk to McDonald’s and QuikTrip” Rafael stated.
We also interviewed Jitu, Arleen, Kristina, and Tram, who were semi-finalists in Children’s Stories. Their event required them to create stories by drafting first and then writing the story on paper and coloring it. Not only did they have to color the book, but they also had to physically build the spine, front and back cover, and put it all together. After completing the book, they had to present it to the judges. Two group members showed and explained the book, and the judges asked them questions about it. All four stated that the whole experience was very fun, they managed their time well, gained a lot of experience, and got inspiration from other projects.
“We got to explore Fort Worth and be able to meet new people.
When exploring Fort Worth, Jitu found a bell and rang it. When she rang the bell, firefighters came outside and asked what they were doing at the fire station. Jitu asked if they could have a tour, and the firefighters gladly showed them around. They let them try on suits, slide down a pole, explore the truck, and try some firefighting equipment.
“This whole experience was so fun and I will most likely do TSA again.”
We at Bowie wish them the best of luck, hoping they succeed, make it to nationals, and bring back more trophies.
by -Natalie Reynoso
Leave a comment