As AI becomes a core topic in CS curricula, most courses stop at simulation and miss the chance to anchor theory in real hardware. This experience report explores the impact of introducing a sequence of Arduino‑based tinyML labs into a cross-listed course in a CS department. Over one semester, students engaged in hands‑on modules covering sensor data acquisition, model quantization, and deployment on microcontrollers. A post-course survey (N = 44) revealed exceptionally high engagement with the labs (M = 4.89/5, SD = 0.32), strong belief in the value of real hardware over simulations (M = 4.41/5, SD = 0.75), and high overall satisfaction (M = 4.80/5, SD = 0.39). Through this experience report, we aim to offer a generalizable framework for integrating hardware‑oriented tinyML activities into CS curricula.