A week of hands-on science is giving Erie students the opportunity to explore the environment and discover future career possibilities in STEM through Gannon University’s Project NePTWNE.
The Regional Summer School of Excellence, organized through Project NePTWNE, has expanded into a residential summer camp for underserved students from Erie Public Schools. Throughout the week, participants are immersed in environmental science through laboratory activities, field experiences, and college-level instruction led by Gannon University faculty.
“As we go through the week, we’re taking them through different sciences, natural sciences, and talking about different environmental issues, so today was our biology day,” said Dr. Sherri Mason, director of Project NePTWNE.
The camp is facilitated by Gannon biology professors, giving students an opportunity to experience the same concepts and techniques taught in college classrooms.
“Some of the things we did today are very similar to what I do in my college-level fisheries biology class, some of the same calculations,” said Dr. Greg Andraso, a biology professor at Gannon University.
In addition to classroom learning, students spend the week applying what they learn through educational field trips and outdoor activities. Camp participants said they’re excited to explore local destinations while gaining a better understanding of the environment.
“I really like learning about how what we do affects the different ecosystems,” said camper Zoey Visnosky. “I’m excited for the after activities after all this. I think today we go to Asbury Woods.”
The week concludes with students presenting what they have learned, giving them the opportunity to strengthen both their scientific knowledge and communication skills.
“Friday, they present on all of the science that they’ve been learning about this whole week,” Mason said. “So, not only are they doing the science, but then they’re thinking about it and they’re thinking about, ‘How do you explain it?'”
Andraso said that process mirrors the work of professional scientists.
“Science from beginning to end. From question to communication of results,” he said.
Organizers say the camp’s mission extends beyond science education. They hope the experience helps students envision themselves on a college campus and pursue careers in STEM fields.
“There is a lot of kids in Erie who don’t think that college is an avenue for them, but it absolutely is,” Mason said. “What we’re trying to do is introduce them to a world that maybe they haven’t experienced, and show them that this is a career path for them.”