21 Oct Bill Nye Encourages CSUF Students to Vote and Follow Their Curiosity
By Charlotte Ly
The recognizable “Bill! Bill! Bill!” chant filled the Titan Student Union as Cal State Fullerton students welcomed Bill Nye to Associated Student Inc.’s latest Beyond the Conversation event.
The scientist, engineer, educator and all-around entertainer engaged students on Oct. 7 in a discussion on education and advocacy.
Nye, who has a background in aerospace engineering, is widely known for his Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) television series “Bill Nye the Science Guy.” The series ran for six seasons in the 1990s, offering fun and engaging science education to students of all ages.
“He was a big staple in my middle school experience,” said Reem Sayed, fourth-year American Studies major. “When I was younger, I’d always fall behind in my science classes, so the fact that his videos actually taught me and helped me understand something that my own teachers couldn’t was really cool.”
Nye brought together generations of students who share a common love for both his programs and witty personality.
“I am a child of the ’90s, so Bill Nye is a very big part of my life, and I love to see that students today still resonate with that,” said Imani Cooper, Student Programs and Engagement (SPE) programming coordinator at ASI. “I was laughing at all the jokes, and I was so excited. It’s like you’re a kid again.”
Stung by the Curiosity Bee
Nye’s fascination with science all began the moment he was first stung by a bee. He read in the Washington Post: “According to aerodynamic theory, bees cannot fly.”
He recounted an early childhood memory of his mother placing ammonia on his bee sting and observing how its components denatured the bee venom. It led him on a curious streak of questioning the world around him, one that has never stopped.
“I think it’s the coolest thing,” said Nye. “I think the process of science by which we have come to know nature and [how] it’s changed the world is just a thrill for me. Every time I learn something new, it’s great.”
He encouraged CSUF students to develop the habit of remaining curious and asking questions.
With the emergence of artificial intelligence and generative software, Nye acknowledged that content on social media can be extremely compelling. He urged students to be careful and critical of information in today’s digital age.
Advocacy and Change
Nye was a role model for students in the ’90s and 2000s and continues to inspire new generations to act on what is right.
Seven years after his viral “The planet is on fire” message, he remains a leading advocate for climate solution. He continues to serve as chief ambassador of The Planetary Society where he was previously chief executive officer of 15 years, advancing space exploration.
Nye even pulled out a physical copy of the U.S. Constitution from his blazer, pointing out to students that the promotion of “science and useful arts” is explicitly stated in the Constitution.
He expressed his frustration at the U.S. government’s lack of initiative in addressing climate change, and implored students to take action in response.
Namely, by voting.
“You all can vote, and you just have to vote,” said Nye. “Voting in California is compli-freaking-cated. There are 45 propositions and 300 judges and 200 co-secretaries of co-state. You’ve got to do the research, and you’ve got to vote.”
Nye said he envisions a future where clean water, renewable electricity and a higher standard of living for women are possible. He repeatedly emphasized the importance of voting as a pathway to these changes.
“It was really nice to see him push that point across to us because you know, we’re growing up,” said Nathan Hoang, SPE student moderator of the event. “It is really important for us to start getting involved in things such as voting.”
Looking Toward the Future, Taking Advantage of Now
Throughout the night, Nye drew students into his stories and moments in history, bringing it all back to today.
He reflected on how science has evolved dramatically over the years. From his grandparents not knowing that neutrons exist, to nuclear energy, flying aircraft and now, dark matter in space.
Nye has never stopped learning and discovering new things. As CSUF students pursue their own education and careers, Nye placed responsibility in students’ hands to take their education seriously and take charge in progressing science.
He predicted that this generation may begin to incorporate intentional use of artificial intelligence in agriculture, or anticipate gene change to make antibiotics more effective. In whatever form it may take, he said he believes in the ability of today’s generation of students to make a difference.
Back to you, Nathan
Beyond the Conversation reminded students that Nye is not just a childhood television host; he is still here as they grow into adulthood.
Hoang often watched “Bill Nye the Science Guy” in his elementary science classes. Having the opportunity to moderate the event and speak with Nye left him inspired by Nye’s character.
“He was very energetic, very enthusiastic, and I was really excited to just have him lead the conversation with that,” said Hoang.
Hoang enjoyed listening to all of Nye’s stories and words of wisdom, especially as a college student transitioning from education to career.
“We’re in this very awkward, unique stage of our life,” said Hoang. “Anyone who’s on that stage could be you in the future, and that’s something Beyond the Conversation puts into perspective for students like me.”
Nye held both the reality of today and a hope for tomorrow in his talk, giving students the agency to vote, hope, believe and learn.
“This is the most exciting time. You guys are going to be graduated from Cal State Fullerton with this degree, and it will be worth more the day after you are graduated than the day you graduate,” said Nye. “You guys are going to go out there and dare I say it, change the world.”