County students get steeped in science at Bowie State University
A group of Prince George’s County middle schoolers have temporally suspended their usual summer routine in favor of rigorous scientific inquiry.
For two weeks, the students will be part of the ExxonMobil Bernard Harris Summer Science Camp, which kicked off July 7 on the campus of Bowie State University.
Dr. Bernard Harris Photo: theharrisfoundation.org
One of the highlights of the camp will take place this week when the students will receive a visit from former NASA astronaut Bernard Harris, who was the first African American astronaut to conduct a space walk and veteran of two space shuttle missions. Harris is expected to share his unique life story with the students.
“Students in middle school today have had significant technology in their hands since birth,” said Harris in a statement. “The goal of the camp is to give them a first-hand look at just how fun it can be to understand the wonders of how math and science play a role in the electronics they enjoy every day.”
While the camp is in session, students will work alongside ExxonMobil engineers and scientists as they conduct hands-on experiments, participate in interactive demonstrations, and receive an insider’s look at engineering and other science careers.
Organizers of the camp hope the students will be inspired to take up careers in math and science-related fields. A recent Congressional study found that the U.S. will experience a shortage of some 500,000 engineers, scientists and other technically trained workers by the year 2010.
Students conducting a science experiment / Photo: theharrisfoundation.org
The study said that it’s essential to get young people engaged early in life so they are motivated to pursue careers in math and science.
“Our country is facing a critical deficiency in students pursuing engineering and science related careers, which are the foundation of innovation in the 21st century economy,” said Gerald McElvy, president of the ExxonMobil Foundation, in a recent statement. “This, in time, could reduce today’s technological advantages enjoyed by the United States."
"At ExxonMobil, we are committed to helping increase students’ interest in these careers by giving them exposure to hands-on math and science activities and introducing them to role models who have achieved great success in their careers,” McElvy said.
--PGS Staff
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