Small Business Profile - Mississauga's Super Scientist
/In conversation with Louise McPherson, founder of Super Scientist.
1. What exactly does your business do?
Super Scientist provide super fun, LIVE science experiments for elementary students. We use a combination of science laboratory boxes and LIVE online lessons.Our curriculum aligned courses walk students through the fundamentals of design and critical problem solving.
2. What inspired you to start your business?
For the last 8 years our team have been delivering large scale engineering challenges to local schools, engaging elementary students in the Critical Design Process from an early age. Research has shown that by age 13, 40 % of students have lost interest in Science and Technology and by age 15, 70% of girls have opted out. The reason is believed to be these subjects are “too difficult”.
Our objective is to ensure Every Child in Every School receives a high level of engagement with hands-on science and technology at early elementary age. Through this exposure we hope to increase confidence, encourage and demonstrate to students that these subjects are for everyone. The life skills learned breaking down complex problems, analyzing data, seeking solutions & testing not to mention material selection, project planning & delivery remain with us forever and never diminish in importance.
3. How has your business adapted to the new world?
During COVID we had to change our format; our offerings have gone virtual but are always LIVE and just as fun! We are offering group, pod, home school, classroom virtual field trips, school events and classroom science boxes. Choose your lesson to suit your timetable.
4. What are you most proud of from a business perspective?
I am most proud of staying true to our vision. We want to bring affordable, fun, experimental science to every student in every school. We strive to do this every day.
5. What's been the largest obstacle to overcome and how did you do it?
The largest obstacle is always making sure people know you are out there! You must advertise and talk, and network, and do it all over again. In this time of social media you can be a small business but have a big presence.
6. What advice do you have for other entrepreneurs?
Find your message and be true to it. If it is right you can flex it to any situation & don’t give up. Work hard to get that message out there.
7. What message do you have for the community as we continue to navigate the global pandemic?
I asked my husband this question his answer was “so far, so good!” As a parent, sister, friend, wife I realize that this is a time to support each other. We all just have to work together and help each other out. Support local. Stay safe. It is difficult time for the adults but it is worse for our children who are forced into this odd situation. Anything we can do to keep them excited and interested in learning helps. Eventually this will pass and we will step out of it with stories and experiences to share.
