BU Wheelock’s Upward Bound Math Science (UBMS) program partnered with the Christa McAuliffe Center for Integrated Science Learning at Framingham State University and the Josiah Quincy Upper School in Boston to provide recent virtual school vacation programs designed to expose high school students to STEM fields.

Participating UBMS students were able to choose between two tracks—Astronomy, which was provided by the McAuliffe Center, and Data Science, which was taught by a teacher from the Josiah Quincy Upper School. The program was coordinated by program manager Nicole Sjoblom and academic resource advisor Albert Jimenez.

“It was vitally important to continue to offer science activities over school break, even in a remote setting,” says Dr. Sjoblom. “Our program gives students unique, hands-on opportunities to explore STEM topics. Career and major exploration is so important and can still happen virtually.”

Students who chose Data Science participated in workshops exploring data visualization and python coding. They spoke with STEM professionals and worked on developing their skills in critical thinking, science communication, and collaboration. Students participating in the Astronomy program learned about the life cycle of stars and how to use NASA’s MicroObservatory site. Each group gave final presentations on the last day of programming summarizing their experiences.

For Charlestown 9^th grader, Mariaelena Suazo, it was time well spent. “It was really cool to learn completely new things about the galaxy and the universe that I had never known before,” says Suazo. “It also encouraged me to learn even when school is out.”

Upward Bound Math Science, is a federally funded outreach and student services program that is federally funded to serve 50 students. It prepares low-income and first-generation college-bound high school students from the Boston and Chelsea Public Schools for success in postsecondary study in a STEM field. UBMS services include after-school academic support and test preparation, assistance with the college and financial aid processes; academic year and summer science tracks led by Boston University STEM faculty and graduate students; and a six-week academically focused summer residential program.

Upward Bound, UBMS’ parent program, celebrates its 30th anniversary on Saturday, April 10th. More information can be found here.