Record number of students participate in Engineering K-12 Outreach’s ‘The Drop’

Can you drop an egg from a Jordan-Hare Stadium ramp without breaking it?

Nearly 75 elementary-aged students attempted just that this past weekend as part of the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering K-12 Outreach’s annual “The Drop” event.

To compete, students were given 40 minutes to plan, sketch and build a contraption that would, hopefully, protect the egg inside once it’s dropped from a stadium ramp. Students were provided with mini popsicle sticks, a sheet of plastic, assorted rubber bands, cotton balls, a piece of cardstock, clear cups, regular popsicle sticks, straight straws, a roll of masking tape, deflated balloons, pipe cleaners, a pair of scissors, pom poms, sea shells, one yard of ribbon and a sheet of stickers to complete the project. After every student finished building their contraption, the testing phase began where each participant’s entry was dropped from the stadium to the ground. To move on to the next round, the eggs inside of each drop contraption are visually inspected.

Both a parent of each participant and a Cupola Engineering Ambassador were able to assist each student in all aspects of designing and building the egg drop contraption. The winners were determined by whose eggs made it through the competition without breaking.

This year’s event was themed “Under the Sea” to mimic how a spacecraft splashes down into the ocean on return from space. Students were also encouraged to dress to the theme, with many showing up as jellyfish, sailors, turtles, pirates and more.

“The Drop is my favorite event we host,” said Clayton Ann Short, manager of Engineering’s K-12 Outreach. “It’s incredible to see both new and returning competitors challenge themselves and showcase their creativity through their prototypes each year. This event also wouldn’t be possible without the support of our Cupola Ambassadors. They engage, assist, and entertain these future engineers while serving as inspiring role models who show just how exciting engineering can be.”

This year’s record-breaking attendance saw visitors from Alabama, Georgia and Mississippi.

“It’s hard to put into words how much the kids enjoyed it — the excitement, the creativity and the energy you bring to the event makes it truly special,” said one parent of a participant. “My kids talk about it this event long after it’s over and eagerly look forward to coming back again, determined to give it their best shot. What really stands out is the joy and confidence this experience gives them. Opportunities like this spark curiosity, teamwork and resilience in a way that stays with them, and that’s all because of the thought, care and effort put into making it happen. Thank you for creating something so meaningful for the kids and for all that you do to inspire them year after year. It truly makes a difference to these young engineers.”

Next year’s drop is scheduled for March.

“The Drop is always an engaging and rewarding experience,” said AnnJacob Woodson, Engineering K-12 Outreach programs administrator. “It is exciting to see younger students develop an interest in engineering as they test their designs and learn through hands-on challenges. From the creative costumes and egg-themed puns to the safe egg landings, or inevitable splats, every moment is memorable. It is especially meaningful to me to see our current Auburn Engineering students cultivate a passion for outreach and to watch that enthusiasm continue to grow.”