At The Sandbox Children’s Museum, we believe that learning happens through curiosity, creativity, and community. Few people represent that mission better than Emma Chandler, a former volunteer who has become an invaluable member of our summer STEM Lab team.
Emma’s journey with The Sandbox began through a community service opportunity organized by her Computer Science teacher at Hilton Head Preparatory School. During a class visit to the STEM Lab, she got a firsthand look at the exciting technology, hands-on learning experiences, and engaging environment that make the space so special.
“It looked like a lot of fun to work with,” Emma recalls. “So I reached out about volunteering, and I haven’t looked back.”
What started as volunteer service quickly grew into something more. Emma’s eagerness to learn, warm personality, and natural ability to connect with children made her stand out from the beginning.
“Emma is perfect for the STEM Lab,” says Alicia Powell, Executive Director of The Sandbox. “Kids immediately relate to her, and she’s willing to help in any area of the museum. She’s always on time, ready to work, eager to learn new things, and focused on helping our guests create great memories.”
When a need arose for additional summer staff support, Emma was a natural choice.
“It was really exciting,” Emma says of becoming a paid staff member. “I really felt like I was getting to be a part of the team, and I’ve met so many wonderful people as a result.”
Through her work in the STEM Lab, Emma has gained hands-on experience with microscopes, 3D printers, robotics, and other emerging technologies. But she says some of her most valuable lessons have come from working directly with children.
“I’ve learned how to play with kids, their type of humor, and how to have fun with them,” she explains. “It really makes me happy when kids have a fun time there; it tells me I did a good job.”
One of her favorite memories involves two siblings who spent their visit laughing and competing together at the Obie interactive table. Emma joined the fun, and together they created a moment that perfectly captures the spirit of The Sandbox: learning, playing, and connecting through shared experiences.
Volunteer Coordinator Becky Monroe says Emma’s dedication and enthusiasm have made a lasting impact.
“Emma is very dedicated to her responsibilities, always showing up and giving us her best,” says Monroe. “Her commitment to volunteering shows me that she is going to do great things with her life. She has great enthusiasm for making the world and her community a better place and is a wonderful role model for her peers.”
For Emma, being a role model is something she takes seriously.
“It feels great to know younger children see me as a role model,” she says. “I hope I’ve sparked a bit of interest in a child who will grow up to study Computer Science, Aerospace, UI Engineering, or another technology field.”
Her experience at The Sandbox has strengthened her own career aspirations as well. Emma hopes to pursue a future in technology and is currently working toward a personal goal of developing and publishing a Halloween-themed visual novel video game.
Emma’s journey highlights the importance of creating real-world opportunities for young people to learn, contribute, and grow. Through volunteer, internship, and employment experiences, students gain valuable skills, confidence, responsibility, and a deeper connection to their community.
“Community-based education is key to the success of The Sandbox,” says Alicia. “Emma’s story is a wonderful example of what can happen when young people are given opportunities to explore their interests, develop new skills, and make a meaningful impact.”
As Emma puts it:
“The Sandbox is a great place to meet new people and introduce kids to all sorts of things they may find interesting, leading to possible careers and successful lives in the future.”
We are incredibly grateful for Emma’s contributions and proud to have her as part of The Sandbox family. She represents the very best of our next generation: curious, compassionate, hardworking, and committed to making a difference.