OSU Institute of Technology recently hosted 34 middle and high school students for its Emerging & Converging Technology Academy. This free, four-day event immerses participants in hands-on STEM activities. Funded by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education, the academy exemplifies OSUIT's commitment to its nearly 80-year mission of delivering exceptional polytechnic education.
The free four-day academy is not just about math and science. It's about applying these skills in real-world scenarios through a series of OSUIT programs, including Culinary Arts, Engineering Technologies, Creative & Information Technologies, and Nursing.
"Our goal is to introduce these young students to diverse STEM fields and demonstrate that they can thrive in higher education," said Angie Been, communications instructor at OSUIT and organizer of the summer academy. "We want them to see that a college degree can open doors and transform futures."
Students engaged in various practical, real-world activities across OSUIT's innovative programs. They participated in lab exercises to explore hydraulic systems, construct DNA models, assemble electrical circuits, and learn about cybersecurity. Students also experienced virtual reality simulations and discovered math and science's critical role in food preparation.
"Many students were surprised by how integral math and science are to these fields," Been said. "Our hands-on approach allowed them to apply classroom concepts to real-life situations directly, and seeing their excitement and interest grow throughout the week was rewarding."
The academy also featured presentations on various career paths, ACT preparation workshops, and team-building exercises, providing a comprehensive overview of the polytechnic educational experience offered at OSUIT. Evenings were filled with activities that gave students a taste of college life, complete with dormitory stays and social events designed to complement their academic lessons.
Feedback from the participants was overwhelmingly positive. Students expressed interest in STEM careers and demonstrated their remarkable enthusiasm for the hands-on approach to learning. Their immersive experiences highlighted the vast array of career opportunities available through a Polytechnic education and fostered a supportive environment where students could envision their success in college and beyond. Their achievements, both in the classroom and in the various activities, are a testament to their potential and the academy's effectiveness.
"While touring, I had the opportunity to observe and touch the medical mannequins. My fellow students were truly amazing and made my experience that much better. I hope others from Vian get to see the same opportunity I have," said Brittney C., an Upward Academy student.
For more information about OSUIT and the programs offered, please visit www.osuit.edu. For more information about the Upward Academy, contact angie.been@okstate.edu or visit https://osuit.edu/summer-academy.php.