Parent to Parent: Girls science camp

Getting girls excited about science and engineering, that's what one summer camp is all about!

Chrys Demetry, camp instructor
"We started the program because women are entering higher education in increasing numbers but the engineering fields haven't seen the benefits of that growth."

The camp, at Worcester Polytechnic Institute, is for girls entering the seventh grade.

Chrys Demetry, camp instructor
"We want to show girls that engineers have a particular ability to make the world a better place."

The campers are given a specific project and work alongside local businesses.

Colleen Sands, camper
"For our project, we have to beautify the exterior of the Worcester Youth Center."

Twelve year-old Colleen Sands and her group are using problem solving skills they learned in camp.

Colleen Sands, camper
"I've learned a lot about how to plan and prepare and use materials that are at hand."

Molly Eldredge, 15, went to the camp when she was younger. Now she's back as a mentor to the young girls.

Molly Eldredge, mentor and former camper
"Now I just sort of guide the campers into the process that they need to be, and if they're having trouble with something, I can just help."

Molly's dad, who is a mechanical engineer, says he looks forward to seeing more women in his profession.

Mike Eldredge, dad and mechanical engineer
"When I went to school there were not many women that attended the school. Also, working in the field, there's not many women still involved to this day so I think it's important to get the girls interested in this."

And Molly's mom says the camp can help guide the girls as they begin to grow up.

Wendy Eldredge, mom
"It really opens up new possibilities for young women."

Since the program began more than a decade ago, interest has increased, but only 30 slots get filled per summer.

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