Salina, NY -- Institute of Technology High School students from Syracuse are getting a hands-on college experience while learning about science and the environment this week. Upcoming sophomores and juniors are exploring environmental issues at a weeklong camp at SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry. ESF SCIENCE, which stands for Summer Camps Investigating Ecology in Neighborhood and City...
Students from the Syracuse Institute of Technology attend ESF Science, a summer camp investigating ecology in neighborhood and city environments. ESF student Matt Brincka (the team leader - at left) was showing the kids a number of local fish species captured at Willow Bay on Onondaga Lake. He was attempting to return this bowfin to the lake when it got away from him surprising Edward Furcinito at far right. Salina, NY -- Institute of Technology High School students from Syracuse are getting a hands-on college experience while learning about science and the environment this week.
Upcoming sophomores and juniors are exploring environmental issues at a weeklong camp at SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry. ESF SCIENCE, which stands for Summer Camps Investigating Ecology in Neighborhood and City Environments, ends Friday.
“At this age, a lot of kids stop being interested in science and when we get them out here, at places like Onondaga Lake and ESF, it really revitalizes their interest in science,” said Rick Beal, assistant dean of educational outreach for ESF.
During the week, the students discussed a variety of topics including renewable energy, the effects of the oil spill and plants and wildlife.
“I’ve learned about the different types of animals and bugs,” said Kareem Clark, 15. “It’s been a lot of fun. It’s been very educational. A good mix of fun and learning.”
ESF SCIENCE works in partnership with the Syracuse City School District and Syracuse University’s Partnership for Better Education. The camp, which is free to the students, is funded through a state grant through the school district.
The students work on science projects and hear lectures during the day and stay in Syracuse University residence halls at night.
“It’s been great being able to stay in the dorms,” said Ashley Woolman, 15. “Walking around campus I felt like I was a real college student.”
Ausha Brown, 16, said she has been having a lot of fun at the camp.
“It’s a great program,” Brown said. “I’m learning a lot from the teachers and I love being outside.”