Robotics and the arts
01/30/2026
One of Specht’s most unique Bluffton experiences came through a cross-disciplinary project in her linear electronics class, where she and two classmates built a robot for the fall theatre production “After the Blast.”
Specht reflects on experiential learning across disciplines
Jennifer Specht ‘27, Fairfield, Ohio, is a triple major in chemistry, pre-engineering and physics, with a minor in math. She describes her academic path as something that developed naturally, sharing that chemistry was always a subject she enjoyed.
That enjoyment followed her to Bluffton, with hands-on learning has been a highlight of her coursework. “I really like labs,” Specht noted. “I was in high school during COVID, so we didn't get to do like hands-on labs. Typically, the instructor did them, and we just had to watch. I remember coming here to Bluffton and being most excited to get into a lab and get experience.”
Bluffton’s size played a major role in her decision to attend. Specht shared that she wanted “that relationship with the professor,” considering the nature and challenges of her coursework. “The door is always open with the professors here at Bluffton, and that’s what I wanted,” Specht explained.
Beyond the classroom, Specht is a member of the women’s soccer team. She describes the team as “truly a family.” She also tutors teammates in chemistry, explaining, “I always offer up my time,” and credits coaches who are “very helpful […] supporting my academics too.”
One of Specht’s most unique Bluffton experiences came through a cross-disciplinary project in her linear electronics class, where she and two classmates built a robot for the fall theatre production “After the Blast.”
Called upon by the theatre department, the project offered both challenge and reward every step of the way. “The most fun part is seeing how everything came together,” she said, “In the lab you follow a manual. But for this project, it was like we're starting from scratch.”
The robot began in an unexpected way. “It was literally a trash can,” Specht laughed, explaining how they flipped it upside down, sanded and painted it, and built motors and lighting inside. Despite challenging setbacks like a broken motor and the uniqueness of turning a trash can into a futuristic robotic prop, Specht was pleased with the project.
The most rewarding part she shared was hearing feedback from audience members. “To me it’s just an upside-down trash can, but to other people it’s a robot in a play,” Specht noted.
Looking ahead, Specht is excited for her upper-level courses, knowing they offer more opportunities for experiential learning. She’s confident her education here at Bluffton is preparing her for more than just field knowledge, but also giving her the skills to take on any challenge. “No matter what struggles come with that class,” she stated, “I have the resources.”