Speaker
Description
For over a decade, the international IceCube Collaboration has hosted an annual Masterclass at multiple universities. This presentation highlights the 11th iteration of the program organized at the University of Delaware. The program is designed for advanced high school students, but especially juniors considering University STEM programs. It provides students with hands-on exposure to neutrino physics, cosmic-ray analysis, and the unique challenges of conducting research at the South Pole. The curriculum is structured to bridge the gap between foundational particle physics, hands-on experiments, and modern data science. Students move beyond theory by using tabletop muon detectors and performing event reconstructions of IceCube air-showers to derive the cosmic-ray energy spectrum. Additionally, it provides the opportunity for direct, personal interaction with professional researchers. We will also share insights into the Masterclass’s impact through student feedback and share our roadmap for upcoming years.