STEM camp gives high school students hands-on experience

High school students from across North Carolina explored the exciting world of science, engineering and healthcare as 53 participants attended Campbell University's High School STEM Camp, hosted by the College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences in collaboration with the School of Engineering.

Designed to spark curiosity and introduce students to careers in STEM, the three-day camp immersed participants in hands-on activities led by faculty and staff from both Colleges. Throughout the program, students explored engineering, pharmaceutical sciences and clinical research while building teamwork, problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.

Campers experienced what it's like to work in a research laboratory as they performed hands-on experiments, like chromatography techniques. They also put their analytical skills to the test during a Clinical Research escape room, where teams worked together to solve research-based clues while learning about the role clinical research plays in advancing healthcare.

Engineering faculty challenged students to think creatively through design activities like building a chassis and building a nano bug track that demonstrated how innovation, collaboration and persistence come together to solve real-world problems. By working through engineering and scientific challenges, campers experienced firsthand how professionals from multiple STEM disciplines work together to improve lives.

Rather than simply learning scientific concepts, students experienced how those concepts are applied to answer questions, make discoveries and address challenges facing communities around the world.

"Our goal is to show students that science is something you experience, not just something you study," said Mike Gallagher, director of Pharmaceutical & Clinical Sciences. "By giving them opportunities to work in our labs, collaborate with their peers and solve authentic challenges, we hope they leave with greater confidence, curiosity and a better understanding of the many career opportunities available in STEM."

Throughout the camp, students worked alongside Campbell faculty, staff and mentors who encouraged them to ask questions, think creatively and approach each activity like scientists, engineers and researchers.

From engineering design challenges and laboratory investigations to clinical research simulations, every activity was designed to demonstrate the many pathways available within STEM while helping students develop skills that will serve them in high school, college and beyond.

The annual High School STEM Camp reflects Campbell University's commitment to inspiring the next generation of innovators, engineers, researchers and healthcare professionals by providing meaningful, hands-on experiences that bring STEM education to life.