building block
buddies
mission statement
The goal of Building Block Buddies is to promote engineering to children through Legos. By introducing engineering-related concepts at a young age, we hope to showcase the depth of the field—which extends far beyond traditional math and science classes.
At Building Block Buddies, we believe that Legos are not only an effective tool for engaging children with engineering but also provide an opportunity to build essential skills, including spatial reasoning, creativity, and problem-solving.
According to Tiffany Tseng, a graduate researcher in the MIT Media Lab Lifelong Kindergarten group, “[Kids] learn about structural integrity, design, and a practical sense of geometry.”
While many may not realize it, kids engage with math and physics concepts during the Lego building process. Constructing new and innovative structures, deconstructing them, and experimenting with revisions are fundamental practices for any engineer. Through this hands-on experience with Legos, children may discover enjoyment in learning and develop an appreciation for the fascinating world of engineering.
contact us
meet the team
Learn more about our team of undergraduate Purdue University students and why they decided to join Building Block Buddies!
executive board
avi painuly
co-founder & co-president
major: FYE
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vivian chen
co-founder & treasurer
major: neurobiology & physiology
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jack benford
vice president
major: FYE - aerospace
"Tinkering with Lego candy machines and Technic cars as a kid gave me lifelong memories with my family while fostering my problem-solving skills and creativity. Legos provide a platform for young minds to bring their ideas to life, introducing them to the wonders of engineering. With Building Block Buddies, I will help inspire the next generation of engineers one brick at a time."
arnav juneja
secretary
major: FYE - computer
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max larnerd
head of external operations
major: FYE - mechanical
"I worked as a volunteer tutor at my local library for 6 years (middle school to graduation), and by far the most rewarding part of the job—the thing that kept me coming back every week—was when a student finally understood something that they just couldn't seem to grasp minutes before. In an instant, their once despised math or English homework became their favorite part, as they would ask endless questions and truly want to learn.
I believe Building Block Buddies is able to create this same passion for learning and innovating as I saw firsthand all those years at the library. By far the most creative people I have ever met were fourth graders coming to me for homework help—and I believe through Building Block Buddies, I have the opportunity to assist this explosion of curiosity."
aashish gadicherla
head of internal operations
major: FYE - aerospace/electrical
"As a prospective engineer, I wanted to find more ways in order to spread the fun of engineering to others in my community. Legos are a fun and easy way for children to experience engineering through learning the design process through trial and error, so joining this club made a lot of sense. Overall, Building Block Buddies is a perfect way for me to interact with the community and spread the joy of engineering to others."
Meet the Teachers
supporting team
anay mohile
major: FYE - aerospace
"Ever since I can remember, my favorite weekend pastime was immersing myself in a Lego world of my own creation, which I owe my interest in engineering to. However, I see that many kids are apprehensive about the idea of engineering because of stereotypical views about the field or due to limited exposure.
Through work experience as a math tutor, I was able to see firsthand how hands-on learning and an encouraging environment can inspire children and challenge their thinking in an engaging manner. By organizing Lego workshops alongside Building Block Buddies, I want to show children by example that engineering can be as creative and hands-on as they can imagine."
dylan mahan
major: computer science
"Legos were a fundamental part of my childhood. Not only were they incredibly fun for me, but they also were some of my first steps in learning problem-solving, creativity, engineering, and many other fundamental skills. Lego EV3 was also my first real experience with computer science and is part of what led me to where I am today. My goal is to help others find similar experiences through the Lego medium."
ellis thome
major: FYE - civil
"Building with Lego bricks was a staple of my life growing up, and the chance I had to be creative and build what came to my mind was what sparked my interest in engineering. Lego was a great tool that helped me realize my ideas in a physical form, and using trial and error to do so was crucial in developing my creativity. I believe every kid should have this same opportunity to express and develop their creativity."
nolan wong
major: FYE - electrical
"As a (future) electrical engineer, I believe that it is important to understand the foundations of how things in our society operate. By using Legos, we are teaching the children how to look at the world through this analytical lens, and we can also teach them how to solve problems as they arise in their projects. Both of these skills are important for all kinds of engineering fields in the real world.
Additionally, we can teach the kids how to work together, which is fundamental not only for academics and employment but can build foundational skills through hands-on activities that typical schooling does not provide. Not only will we be teaching them the skills it takes to become an engineer, but we will also do it in a fun and entertaining way."
zach salcedo
major: psychology
"I have a special interest in the cognitive and psychological development of young children. I especially appreciate the organization's mission of enriching school-age children's learning experience while also aiding cognitive development through hands-on experiences.
Throughout my earlier personal life, I've struggled with grasping concepts in the physical dimension. However, as I've matured, I realize the immense value that physical experience gives, especially in the domains of problem-solving and reasoning ability. As a psychology major, I believe that children's early development is crucial to both an early, well-established cognitive basis on which they build but also gives them fundamental skills that they can use well into their adult lives. This organization provides key opportunities for children and strives for the future I believe in."
upcoming
events
still in the process of planning. check our website or social media (linkedin, instagram, or facebook) to stay updated!