Injectable nanogel can monitor blood-sugar levels and secrete
insulin when needed. In a bid to boost girls' self-confidence
and interest in science, MIT students last month ran a four-day
program in which girls could come to the Institute, try their
hand at science and meet some potential role models. Twelve
girls took part in the latest session of KEYs (Keys to
Empowering Youth), a program created by graduate student Corinna
Lathan and Rachel Ash-Bernal, a senior research assistant at
Mass. Eye and Ear Infirmary. Two days were devoted to workshops
on stereotypes, problem-solving and self-defense at the
Montessori Community School in Scituate, where the girls were or
are students. On the other days, they visited several
laboratories at MIT as well as a hospital and a garage. The
motivational program is aimed at girls ages 11-13, "a really
crucial time. That's when the stereotypes come into play and
people make assumptions about what girls like and don't like to
do," said Ms. Lathan, who is finishing her docto