Summer Science Academy Wraps Up A Successful Year
Posted on Aug. 17, 2009
The Summer Science Academy at Northwestern Health Sciences University wrapped up a successful fifth year on Aug. 14, 2009. More than 125 students attended, many of them returning for the second, third or fourth consecutive year.
“This was my second year,” said Paige, who will be a sophomore at St. Paul Open School. “It’s a great place to be. I’ve made a lot of friendships, and learned a lot about health. We have great mentors – it’s amazing.”
“The Science Academy helps us at Northwestern to fulfill our mission on three levels,” said Tolu Oyelowo, DC, associate professor, who is one of the coordinators for the Science Academy. “We’re serving our community, facilitating cultural competency through education, and building a pipeline of students and families who would not otherwise have exposure to our programs.”
Bill Kuehl, BS, director of admissions, also a co-director for the Academy, agreed. “We had an exceptional week. The academy students embraced the experience and enthusiastically grew and learned through the opportunity. As an added benefit, several students stated they were now strongly thinking of attending Northwestern to pursue a career in chiropractic. It’s very gratifying!”
The Summer Science Academy is a week-long program designed for a diverse group of students, grades eight through 12, who show an aptitude for math and science. Students are initially recommended into the program by teachers and school principals and are automatically accepted back into the program each subsequent year.
Students participated in hands-on activities throughout the week, learning about topics such as the musculoskeletal system; cardiology; math; chemistry; first aid and CPR. Third and fourth year students went on field trips to the Natural Care Center at Woodwinds, and Starkey Laboratories. On Thursday they heard guest speakers Trent Tucker, a former Minnesota Gophers basketball player who played on a National Basketball Association championship team with Michael Jordan from the Chicago Bulls; and Robyne Robinson, Fox 9 News anchor.
“It is important to let kids know what’s out there,” said Tucker, who has been involved with youth after-school programs for about 12 years. “Kids need to know that there are many resources and options. Programs like this put them in a setting where they’re exposed to something different. It changes their thought process. Now all of a sudden, they see college as an option.”
Robinson spoke about her start in journalism and television. “Believe in yourself,” she emphasized. “Work hard and never give up. If you love what you’re doing, stand up for yourself and take every opportunity.
“The Science Academy gives students a wonderful opportunity to learn about human systems, interact with professors, staff and senior administrators and feel more comfortable in a university setting,” said Dr. Oyelowo. “All in all it’s a win-win situation. Many thanks to all who work extremely hard to make this happen and to the campus community for supporting the program.”
Photo: Happy faces were not hard to find throughout the Science Academy held at Northwestern Aug. 10-14.