Describe the Issue or Situation: 

I was asked to be a mentor for the Summer Apprenticeship Program (SAP 2024). I provided a tour of the KSU Aquaculture Research Center for the 15 camp participants and facilitated an aquaponics research project with one appointed mentee. This program focused on experiential-leaning, college-prep and STEM career opportunities. 

Describe the Outreach or Educational Program Response (and Partners, if applicable). 

All students had to develop, conduct and present a PowerPoint of their research projects. Students also had to write a scientific paper detailing their findings. My student looked at a growth comparison of aquaponic and hydroponic grown lettuce. This taught her about the importance of scientific theory, accurate data collection/transformation, scientific writing techniques and scientific instrument use.  Once the camp was over we kept in contact and we worked via Facetime to implement an aquaponics system in her Indiana high school. 

Provide the Number and Description(s) of Participants/Target Audience.

Many of the SAP participants are from low-income families and racial/gender minorities were represented.

9- black, 3-Asian/Pacific Islander, 1- Multi/2 or more races, 8 males-5 females 

Provide a Statement of Outcomes or Program Impact. Please note that the outcomes statement must use evaluation data to describe the change(s) that occurred in individuals, groups, families, businesses, or in the community because of the program/outreach.

I was not the main organizer of this program and while I may not have post-program evaluation data to add. I can state that verbally my student expressed that she had a wonderful time at the program and gained knowledge about STEM careers and interest in perusing a STEM degree.