A University of Iowa student and entrepreneur appeared Wednesday on ABC’s “Good Morning America,” showcasing a science kit she designed to bring hands-on experiments into homes.
Dasia Taylor, a junior majoring in global health studies, demonstrated her NERD STEM Box: Ooey Gooey Science Edition during a five-minute segment on the national morning show. The kit includes an experiment called “Liquid Worms,” which uses sodium alginate, water and calcium chloride to create shapes through a process known as spherification.
“When building NERD STEM Box, I wanted to create real science connected to real life – and give kids a chance to experience science class right at their kitchen table,” Ms. Taylor told host Michael Strahan.
Before the live demonstration, “Good Morning America” aired a segment highlighting Taylor’s entrepreneurial journey. At age 17, she developed surgical stitches that change color when detecting infection, using natural dye from beets. The project earned national attention at science fairs and competitions.
“That project came from my desire to bridge equity in science,” Ms. Taylor said.
Ms. Taylor has since launched NERD STEM Box, which she has advanced through programs at the university’s John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center. Earlier this month, she won first place and $3,500 at the center’s Startup Incubator Summer Track Demo Day. In its first year, the kit has reached more than 800 children, a release stated.
“I never imagined myself being an entrepreneur this early,” Ms. Taylor said. “Through NERD STEM Box, I want kids everywhere to know their ideas matter and they belong in this space.”
Ms. Taylor said products like hers are especially important as schools face budget pressures.
“It’s up to households and community partners to bridge the gap between what schools can do and the broader world,” she said.
She closed her national television appearance with a nod to her university.
“Go Hawks,” she said.
