Summer Science: Program Creates Research Apprentices

Twelve high school students across the United States became the latest crop to leave with hands-on learning and networking opportunities in the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences’ Research Apprenticeship Program.

Each summer, RAP connects rising high school juniors and seniors across the country with CAES faculty members in all departments for an intensive, two-week research and campus-life experience, wherein students tour both the CAES and university-wide campus and take part in professors’ current projects.

“We are one of the few countries in the world that can say that we are food secure in our needs: we export more than we import,” said Antoine Alston, Ph.D., associate dean of academic studies. “Agriculture is important not only from a nutrition and medical perspective, but a national security perspective. That’s why we need young people to come into the science, technology, and job careers in agriculture, whether you work at U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, in industry, or as a college professor.”

The students presented their findings at the University Farm Pavilion in a closing ceremony on June 28.

Camille Walker, an incoming senior at Washington Liberty High School in Virginia, studied in the ruminant lab of Uchenna Anele, Ph.D.

“I was already interested in applying for A&T when I’d heard about the program,” said Walker. “Over the last two weeks, I’ve learned about ruminant nutrition, having hands-on experience, working with chemicals in the lab and collecting milk on the farm to bring back and analyze. I would definitely recommend the program for anyone interested in STEM or agriculture; it’s solidified my interest in animal science and veterinary medicine.”

Carlton Tiller, of Booker T. Washington High School in Tuskegee, Ala., learned about agribusiness techniques from department head Kenrett Jefferson-Moore, Ph.D.

“I learned a lot about new ways how small farmers from across the world are increasing their profit, making more money with the products they have and value-added products from their original produce,” said Tiller. “Dr. Moore has been a tremendous teacher and I’m glad to have been in the program.”

Courtney Lawrence, Ph.D., a program counselor for RAP and 2013 CAES alum, called RAP and similar programs “highly critical” for entering college students to have.

“It’s a really proud moment when our students first come in, trying to find themselves, and by the end, they feel confident in their work and representing their respective hometown and school,” said Lawrence. “I hope they continue to take advantage of the opportunities they’ve been given with this program and continue to matriculate with college degrees.”

During the closing ceremony on June 28, guest speaker Brianna Williams, student services specialist and 2014 RAP participant, told the students it was important to “step out of their comfort zone” and “do what brings you joy” during their current and post-high school plans.

“As current high school students, stepping out of your comfort zone teaches you about your likes, dislikes, and what you are truly capable of,” said Wiliams. “It is an opportunity for holistic growth. This world is small, so the people you have built a relationship with throughout this program could potentially be your future classmates, co-workers, or even your future employer. The impression you leave with others carries you a long way.”