If you know a sixth-grade girl who is interested in learning more about science, technology and engineering, point her to STEPS, a summer camp offered at the University of St. Thomas.
STEPS (Science, Technology and Engineering Preview Summer camp for girls) is hosted by UST's School of Engineering. The camp is a five-day introduction to the world of technology and engineering. Campers participate in activities that will give them hands-on experience with high-tech equipment and processes.
Deadline to enroll in the free camp is April 7. Applications are available online. Campers will be selected at random from all eligible applicants.
St. Thomas will offer four five-day sessions of 40 campers in each.
STEPS is an opportunity for girls to learn more about what engineers do. Instructors have extensive backgrounds in engineering, technology and science. Counselors are assigned to the campers in a ratio of one to every 10 girls.
Program activities include designing, manufacturing and flying a radio-controlled airplane. Students also will explore science and engineering topics such as physics, electricity, chemistry and team building.
The camp also schedules activities that may include swimming, pizza parties and karaoke. Participants will experience college life by living in a residence hall and eating on campus.
STEPS' goal is to reach girls early enough to influence their choices of math, science and technical courses in middle and high school; prepare them to succeed in college-level engineering programs; and lead them into careers in manufacturing, engineering and technology.
STEPS will be held at St. Thomas:
- June 25-29
- July 9-13
- July 16-20
- July 23-27
Questions? Contact Jacki Kubal, (651) 962-5750.