National Youth Science Camp

The National Youth Science Camp (NYSC) is an intense month-long camp for young scientists conducted during the summer after they graduate from high school. In a rustic setting, students from around the country are challenged academically in exciting lectures and hands-on studies. Participants have many opportunities to push themselves physically in an extensive outdoor program, gain a new and deep appreciation for the great outdoors, and establish friendships that last a lifetime.

Two students are chosen to represent Virginia as delegates to the National Youth Science Camp. Eligible applicants should meet the following criteria:

must be candidates for high school graduation in the spring of 2005;
must be available to participate in the entire NYSC program (June 30 to July 25, 2005);
should intend to pursue a profession oriented toward science, mathematics, engineering, or medicine;
must demonstrate superior academic proficiency, including recognition in mathematics and/or the sciences;
must demonstrate an application of leadership abilities and social maturity through involvement in both school and community activities;
must demonstrate skills and achievements outside the realm of science and outside the realm of academic pursuits; and

must demonstrate a curiosity and an eagerness to explore many and varied topics.

Information about the National Youth Science Camp and applications may be obtained at the National Youth Science Camp website, http://www.nysc.org/. The applications should be mailed to the following address so they are received no later than February 18, 2005:

Eric Rhoades, Science Specialist

Office of Middle and High School Instruction

Virginia Department of Education, 20^th Floor

P.O. Box 2120

Richmond, VA 23218-2120.

For further information, please contact Eric M. Rhoades Eric.Rhoades@doe.virginia.gov, science specialist, Office of Middle and High School Instruction, at (804) 225-2676.

JLD/ER/yba