high school students attend science-math summer college

Caldwell, NJ – August 2, 2011 - 40 high achieving high school students have a leg up on their peers after successfully completing the Science Math Summer College at Caldwell College. After a three week intensive math, science and technology program they have earned three Caldwell College credits. “This was an intensive and exciting program for high school students to study, research, experience living in a college residence hall, socialize, and learn about college life,” said Lisa DiBisceglie, Ed.D., Associate Dean of External Partnerships. “These students now have an advantage over their peers as a result of being able to taste the various aspects of a college experience.”

The program was open to students who had just finished their junior year of high school, will be the first generation in their families to attend college, and had at least a 3.0 grade point average. The application process was competitive.

Several of the students said a highlight of the program was being able to do hands on work in the chemistry lab. Deejah Whatley of Newark said one of his best experiences was making aspirin in the labs and really doing it by himself. “It wasn’t the teacher doing it for us.” He enjoyed the program because he could actually “feel and experience college classes, college work, and expectations.”

Karissa Dwyer of Dunellen said the program reinforced her decision to study science in college. “This is what I want to do with my life.” She says she would like to become a physical therapist and the program gave her an even clearer focus of what she wants out of her college experience. “I am definitely going to apply to this college.” The Caldwell professors, she said, were there “to help me,” and “you could tell the teachers love what they are doing.”

For many of the students, like Yamna Anwar of North Plainfield, learning they were accepted into the free program was a great joy. “This was a gift, a blessing,” said Anwar. “I put effort in to what was required. I really applied myself well.”

Amber Young of Waldwick said that when she received her acceptance letter her immediate reaction was “Thank you God. I got a blessing I could never afford.”

At the end of the three weeks, the students presented their final research projects in a poster presentation for their family, teachers and principals. Some of the topics the students chose for their research included: the mode of action and synthesis of some pain killers and stimulants, wind energy, solar energy, geothermal energy, nuclear energy, and hydroelectricity.

Science faculty Dr. Angelina Scimone and Dr. Anthony Scimone and Math faculty Dr. Patrick Sime and Dr. Joan Burke were the professors for the course. They collaborated to give the students a unique fully integrated course. Much of the program was run by Caldwell College administration and faculty who were the first generation in their family to attend college.

Caldwell College President Dr. Nancy H. Blattner shared with the students how her parents did not go to college, but instilled in her a strong work ethic, faith in God, and a desire for higher education. She encouraged the students telling them that no matter what their circumstances, they should pursue their dreams and goals. After viewing their work, she said she was certain that they would succeed in their chosen fields of study when they enter college.

“When I spoke with the students and listened to their poster presentations, I was impressed with their research and creativity in presenting their work. Many delved into topics they wish to study in more depth in college. Several collaborated with other participants that they had only met during the program, but the teamwork demonstrated was evident,” she said.

During the program, the Reference Librarians at the college’s Jennings Library worked individually with the students to assist them in conducting research utilizing the library resources. Instruction in the selection and use of online databases was an integral component of the activity which helped the students prepare for future academic study at the college level.

The students also attended numerous “College 101” workshops focusing on: the college search, application and financial aid process, picking a major, conflict resolution, career prep, SAT preparation, time management and scholarships.

They took day excursions including a Jackals baseball game where they learned about the physics and mathematical applications of sports and fireworks; Edison’s Museum; the Turtle Back Zoo and Genesis Farm.

The entire program including room and board, trips, labs and supplies was free to students. Funding was provided by the U.S. Department of Education College Access Challenge Grant through the NJ Commission on Higher Education and by Caldwell College.

View a Summer College Slideshow here.