Vote now for OU grad student to win a Month at the Museum

Vote for OU's Motoko Maegawa in the Month at the Museum contest.

With the backing of the Oakland University community, graduate student Motoko Maegawa may have the unique experience of a lifetime: the chance to live at Chicago’s Museum of Science and Industry for 30 days.

Maegawa is currently one of six finalists in the Month at the Museum contest. Voting is open until 6 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 3. Click here to cast a vote. The results will be announced at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 5.

If selected, Maegawa will live and breathe science from Wednesday, Oct. 19, to Thursday, Nov. 17, and will be awarded $10,000. Her mission will be to experience all the fun and education that fits in this historic 14-acre building, living here and reporting her experiences to the outside world.

“I want to live in the museum this year because I think it is the ultimate illustration of being a lifelong learner,” said Maegawa in her essay.

“I work in schools and always talk the talk about immersing yourself in your education: now is the chance to walk the walk (and sleep the sleep)! Being the museum’s roommate will strengthen my understanding of science, technology, history and most importantly people," she continued.

She will have plenty of time to walk the walk by exploring the museum and its exhibits after hours, and granted special access to rarely seen nooks and crannies of the 77-year-old institution.

Describing herself as hopeful, inquisitive, and spirited, the educator and mother is currently pursuing a master’s degree at Oakland.

To view Maegawa’s Month at the Museum page and cast a vote, view the website.