New Mexico State University's College of Arts and Sciences will host a public event for the entire family in April.

"The Big Bang Bash: Where Arts and Sciences Collide," will include demonstrations of science, art and interactive fun along with food trucks and more from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, April 3 at NMSU's Kent Hall, 1280 E. University Ave.

Tickets are $10 for adults, while their children 12 and under get free admission. To purchase tickets and register for the event, visit https://alwaysanaggie.org/donate/big-bang-bash.

The "Big Bang Bash" is a fundraiser to support NMSU's Discovery Scholars Program, with all proceeds from ticket sales going directly to the scholarships that help students pursue research and academic projects. Discovery Scholars offers a unique opportunity for undergraduates to work closely with mentors on projects that expand their academic and professional horizons.

"Discovery scholars work with a mentor to design their own project and set expectations for their research, as well as for a professional development activity, said Michèle Shuster, associate dean of research in the College of Arts and Sciences and co-director of the program Professional development activities of the current scholars include plans to present at URCAS (Undergraduate Research and Creative Arts Symposium), preparing to apply to graduate school and preparing a draft of a publishable scholarly work. By participating in the Discovery Scholars Program, students can explore and develop both new interests, as well as invaluable skills that will translate to their future academic and professional lives."

The Discovery Scholars program that began 11 years ago is expanding from the College of Arts and Sciences to include students in the College of Health, Education and Social Transformation.

"I'm so excited that this amazing program has expanded to include the College of Health Education and Social Transformation and am grateful to Dean Pontelli for welcoming this collaboration, said Michael Hout, associate dean of research in the College of Health Education and Social Transformation and co-director of Discovery Scholars. So many of our HEST students and faculty will benefit from this program. In fact, we have lots of students with dual majors or minors in programs in arts and sciences. It's such a natural collaboration that will lead to new opportunities, collaborations and friendships across the Colleges."

"With its expansion to include both arts and sciences and HEST, the Discovery Scholars Program currently has 10 scholars working with faculty on a variety of scholarly and creative projects in disciplines from metal jewelry to sociology, sport psychology, archival work and geology," said Shuster.

The "Big Bang Bash" fundraiser to support NMSU's Discovery Scholars will have hands-on activities from arts to astronomy. A mobile planetarium will offer guests an immersive experience exploring the stars, planets and galaxies. Several departments will host interactive quizzes to challenge visitors' knowledge of science, art and the natural world.

A scavenger hunt will give participants the chance to explore Kent Hall and other campus areas and receive a special reward for their efforts. To keep everyone fueled for fun, local food trucks will be on-site, offering a variety of food and refreshments for purchase.

NMSU's University Museum and University Art Museum also will be open for guests to enjoy a range of exhibits that combine artistic expression and scientific discovery.

The full article can be seen at https://newsroom.nmsu.edu/news/community-invited-to-nmsu-s--big-bang-bash--april-3/s/caede66e-7642-46a0-b6c7-0e7e89964a97