AUSTIN, Texas — Research breakthroughs and expert insights at The University of Texas at Austin have helped Texas and the nation overcome monumental challenges this year. From developing COVID-19 vaccines to analyzing Texas’ energy infrastructure after historic winter storms, UT Austin innovators are a crucial part of creating a bright future for the state.
Now, Texans of all ages will be able to learn from these world changers and get a glimpse of what’s next at the biggest virtual open house in the state, Virtual Explore UT.
Held annually, Explore UT consists of live shows, experiments and hands-on workshops conducted by students, researchers and professors in many areas of study. The 2021 program will take place virtually Friday, March 5 through Saturday, March 6, so students from every corner of Texas can tune in to witness the rich knowledge and scholarship at the state’s flagship research university. The event is free and open to the public.
Virtual Explore UT has something for everyone, with presentations in six core areas: Science; Engineering; Business, Culture and Education; Arts, Design and Media; Longhorn Life; and Public Service.
Students will have the opportunity to learn from leaders in their fields of interest and use creative and scientific principles to solve hands-on challenges. Prospective Longhorns can also get a glimpse of life on the Forty Acres through presentations about college applications, a day in the life of a UT student and a virtual tour of campus.
For a complete schedule of activities and more, visit the Explore UT website.
A Few Highlights:
Explosive Chemistry with Kate the Chemist
Join Kate the Chemist, author of “The Big Book of Experiments,” for this explosive event. Professor Kate Biberdorf will show off chemistry experiments such as the Thunder Cloud, and viewers can participate along with her from school or home during the Dry Ice Bubbles and Bubble Snake experiments.
Behind the Scenes: The Art of the Hollywood Backdrop
The Bass Concert Hall stage turns gallery as Texas Performing Arts presents “Behind the Scenes: The Art of the Hollywood Backdrop.” Visit midcentury Hollywood without leaving your home with guidance and insight from professor Karen Maness, Texas Performing Arts scenic art supervisor.
Hear from current UT Austin students about their experiences choosing a major. Our panelists will talk about the transition from high school to college, share their best tips and tricks for navigating the process when it’s your turn, answer your pre-submitted questions, and more!
Hear + Now: A Drive-thru Art Exhibition
TEDxUTAustin transforms UT Austin’s San Antonio Garage into a drive-thru art exhibition! Hear and Now is a drive-thru parking garage art exhibition in the heart of UT Austin’s West Campus. The exhibition, curated by the Center Space Project, features physical works as well as light, video, and sound installations by seventeen students, faculty, and community artists. Hear and Now is a contactless experience where all attendees must stay in their cars at all times.
