STEM camps get girls interested in science
Released Friday, June 14, 2024 at 7:00 AM
Girls throughout Butler County are getting the opportunity to learn more about science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) through a summer camp hosted by Troy University.
Girl Power STEM Camp is a summer camp hosted by Troy University’s College of Arts and Letters that promotes the education of STEM and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) concepts.
Danielle Hudson, a lecturer in the chemistry and physics department at Troy University, has worked with other faculty members in Girl Power STEM camps for three years.
“I think this is important because we want to attract industry here,” Hudson said. “We want our kids to grow up, get an education and then be able to take that back to their hometown and their county and really contribute. I think this is a good opportunity for them to explore the opportunities and see how STEM impacts their daily lives.”
This year, Hudson and other teachers at Troy University are planning a five-day science class for girls in grades six through eight.
Over the course of the planned day, participants will learn the science behind the craft, as Auburn University professor Christine Schnitka will visit campers and teach topics such as fiber and paper science, bookbinding and 3D printing.
“At the end, it allows participants to explore and create something that can be displayed – something that participants can take home and give to their parents,” Hudson said.
Facilitators are also planning a wildlife observation day where participants will visit the arboretum on the Troy University campus to learn about water chemistry and the wildlife in the area. During the day, professors from Troy University’s biology department will help participants collect and analyze water samples at the arboretum.
Other plans include a visit to the McWane Science Center and a visit from the Alabama Extension office.
Girl Power Summer Camp is sponsored by the Regent Foundation, Alabama Cooperative Extension, Greater Destiny Foundation and Troy University’s College of Arts and Sciences.
“Girls are the future leaders of our city and county, so this is a great investment for our partners because they have an interest in seeing that we’re raising great scientific citizens,” Hudson said.
These sponsors have allowed summer camps to keep registration fees low.
Those interested in attending can register on the Troy University website under Community & Outreach and Summer Camps or http://www.troy.edu/community-outreach/camps/index.html.
According to the university’s website, registration is $45 per camper and the camp is limited to 25 girls. Registration closes June 21, or when capacity is reached.
“My goal is to get more girls and women into STEM careers, whether that be in industry, government labs or academia,” Hudson said. “My goal is really to see more of us going into those professions. I think women and girls have creative solutions to some of the problems that we face, some of the scientific problems that we face. I think we have those creative solutions and I think if we have a chance to have our voices heard, we can really make a difference.”