2024 Biology Camp
Exploring a variety of skills is key for students trying to decide what they want to study in college. At the USU Biology Camp, students had the opportunity to learn biology-related careers hands-on from a variety of professors and professionals.
Students "operating" on a gelatin brain.
Aggie Chocolate Factory teaching students how they make fresh chocolate from scratch.
USU Greenhouses are a perfect place to learn about biodiversity and plant care!
At the start of the event, GEAR UP students from the Salt Lake area arrived on a bus, checking them in and establishing the schedule for the camp. After completing safety training by USU professors, they were given a tour of on-campus labs, and shown the equipment and techniques used in said labs. They then participated in exercises that instructed them how to use that equipment, and how it's used in a variety of industries.
After meals, the students were given tours of the USU greenhouses and the Aggie Chocolate Factory, and were taught the biological sciences of both agriculture and food production. USU professors also taught them neuroscience through a gelatin "surgery" lab, and a tour of the USU neuroscience facilities. Some students were even able to interact with the preserved brains in the lab!
In addition to the tours, students were taught chemistry, genetics, and microbiology across the duration of the camp. They additionally had time to socialize with one another, giving them opportunities to bond during their shared experience. When asked about their experiences at camp, students and chaperones both responded with praise, citing the many opportunites to explore new career options that they'd never considered before. They found the camp to be educational and engaging, as well as entertaining to be a part of.