you know, you can sit in a classroom and it doesn't make you a scientist. But by doing science, you really get it."

Dr. Andrea Cobb is a scientist and a former high school teacher who now serves as director of student research at George Mason University.

When we spoke on August 9th, 2022, Andrea recalled the many turns in her career that have now positioned her to direct student research programs at George Mason University. These programs include the Aspiring Scientists’ Summer Internship Program (ASSIP), the “Galileo’s Science Cafe Series” makes faculty research accessible to the broader community, and supporting high school STEM students and their teachers through dual-enrolled Mason Independent Science Research Courses. Connecting them all is her belief in experiential learning as a way to discover a fulfilling pursuit in life.

Andrea grew up in Texas, and her family saved money by fixing things around the house. She discovered how much she loved learning new things and solving problems. These interests led her to pursue scientific research.

Her career steps included academic pursuits (an undergraduate, graduate degree, and a post-doc) and time in between working different jobs like banking and teaching while she raised a family.