BECKLEY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – High school sophomores from across West Virginia are getting first-hand experience in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine (STEM+M) at WVU Tech.
Students joined Golden Bear faculty, staff, and volunteers for the 31st annual Health Sciences & Technology Academy (HSTA) camp – a week-long program held on college campuses throughout the state, geared toward preparing students for STEM+M careers.
“This is a great opportunity to give these students an early grasp on in-demand careers before they actually have to decide on a major in college. They can see what goes into the jobs they might want, what kind of education they need, and how much fun these fields can be while they still have some time to think about their future,” said WVU Tech Assistant Professor of Chemical Engineering Nathan Galinsky, Ph.D.
Galinsky and a team of WVU Tech’s faculty, staff and volunteers lead students through STEM+M activities to expand their understanding of the future that could be waiting for them. Immersive experiences in learning tracks like forensics, coding, and engineering help students build skillsets they can use to prepare for college. In the evening, HSTA campers get a taste of the college experience – living in WVU Tech’s residence halls and having meals in the Bears Den Dining Hall.
HSTA is implemented through West Virginia University Health Sciences and is a nationally recognized program that connects middle and high school students with mentors and academic resources, fostering success in STEM+M undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
“We are proud supporters of this program,” Galinsky said. “My colleagues and I want to help shape the minds of students who are going to be making big contributions to our professions in the coming years. It is really exciting.”
