A six-week science research program for high school students culminated Thursday night with an exhibit of the students findings. The research was made visual on large poster boards designed by the students.
The Summer Science Enrichment Program's poster presentation drew about 80 students, family and friends to the University of the Virgin Island's MacLean Marine Science Center. Guests were able to view projects presented by 10th, 11th and 12th graders from St. Thomas and St. Croix and works by UVI undergraduates.
The presentation was an opportunity for undergraduates and high school students to show off their detailed projects ranging from earth crossing asteroids to fruit fly mutagenization. Other projects included papermaking, population studies, lobster research, air and water quality, passion fruit regeneration and turtle populations.
Spirits were high as students explained in detail six-weeks worth of research. Although success was prominent, students shard the trials and tribulations of compiling data. Manoj Srivastava of Antilles talked of searching for an earth crossing asteroid and the problems he had with bad weather while trying to identify the "Vesta" asteroid.
Another group of students presented an outline of Virgin Islands air and water quality. They pointed out that cistern water is actually the cleanest option in water use for Virgin Islanders.
All of the students who participated received a certificate of recognition and shared some sad good byes. Most of the seniors will be attending UVI next year and several will be going off island to college.
The Bureau of Health and Services Administration and the University of the Virgin Islands sponsored the program. A second poster session is scheduled to take place in November. For more information on future programs contact the UVI Science Center at 693-1230.
