Curiosity starts early, and with the right support, it can last a lifetime!
Illinois Science Explorers (I-Sci) connects University of Illinois students with local organizations to bring hands-on, inquiry-based STEM learning directly to young learners. By pairing near-peer mentors with K-5 students, I-Sci helps make science approachable, exciting, and accessible—especially for students who may not yet see themselves reflected in STEM fields.
This spring, we’re excited to welcome two new undergraduate research assistants who will help lead classroom activities, support engaging lessons, and inspire the next generation of scientists, researchers, and problem solvers.
Meet Our New Team Members
Bailey Dunsmore
Organizational Psychology | Sophomore
Bailey joins I-Sci as an Undergraduate Research Assistant with a strong background in research and youth engagement. She was drawn to the program after working as a summer camp counselor at a STEM-focused day camp in her hometown of Naperville, IL—an experience that sparked her interest in helping young learners explore science in meaningful ways.
At Illinois, Bailey has been designated a College of Liberal Arts and Sciences James Scholar, serves as a Recruitment Coordinator for a group of Developmental Psychology Labs, and works as an Undergraduate Research Assistant for Dr. Rachel Hoopsick’s MEASURE Lab and for projects within the industrial-organizational psychology program. As an Organizational Psychology major, she is excited to help children discover passions that could shape their academic and professional futures.
Outside of the classroom, Bailey sang for two semesters at the UI Women’s Glee Club and has performed in seven musicals and eight plays. She enjoys going to the movie theater, listening to music, and exploring Champaign-Urbana with friends.
Sarah Jones
Psychology (Pre-Med) | Freshman
Sarah is a freshman majoring in psychology with a minor in chemistry on the pre-medicine track. Originally from St. Louis, MO, she hopes to one day open her own psychiatric practice for children in Chicago.
Her commitment to working with young students is already extensive. Sarah has tutored math, participated in mentorship programs, worked as a swim instructor for pre-K through middle school students, served as a camp counselor for two years, and even directed a camp of her own. Since arriving in Illinois, she has continued her community engagement through volunteering with DREAAM and is excited to join Illinois Science Explorers.
Sarah believes childhood plays a powerful role in shaping how children see themselves and the world around us. Through I-Sci, she hopes to help instill confidence, kindness, integrity, and perseverance in the students she works with while encouraging their curiosity and big dreams.
Discover I-Sci Explorers
See how University of Illinois research sparks curiosity and confidence in K–5 students through hands-on STEM programs. Explore our modules, meet the staff, learn about our collaborators, and stay up to date on events and news.