Campbell University’s annual middle school STEM Camp welcomed 59 students for three days of hands-on exploration focused on the lungs and respiratory health. Throughout the camp, students investigated lung anatomy and function while learning about asthma, smoking, vaping and respiratory disease through interactive experiments, engineering challenges and collaborative activities.
Throughout the immersive camp, students explored lung anatomy and function by building working lung models, measuring lung function using spirometers and flow meters, designing drug delivery systems, solving an escape room challenge and participating in engineering activities that encouraged teamwork, creativity and critical thinking.
The experience was made possible through the guidance of nine faculty members, six staff members and six student mentors, who worked alongside campers throughout the week, encouraging questions, celebrating discoveries and helping students build confidence in STEM.
“One of the most rewarding parts of STEM Camp is watching students realize they are capable of solving complex problems and thinking like scientists,” said Mike Gallagher, director of Pharmaceutical & Clinical Sciences. “We hope they leave not only with a better understanding of how the lungs work, but also with the confidence to pursue careers in science, engineering or healthcare. Seeing their excitement grow throughout the week reminds us why experiences like this are so important.”
In addition to the educational activities, campers enjoyed snacks throughout the day and shared lunch together, creating opportunities to connect outside the classroom. As the week progressed, new friendships formed and existing ones grew as students collaborated on projects, encouraged one another and celebrated each accomplishment.
The camp concluded with a certificate ceremony attended by families, giving students the opportunity to showcase what they had learned while celebrating a week of exploration and discovery.
Dr. Chuck Carter, chair of the Department of Pharmaceutical & Clinical Sciences, expressed his appreciation for those who helped make the annual program possible. “Programs like our STEM camps are only possible because of the incredible dedication of so many people. I’m especially grateful to Crystal Dark for her continued leadership in organizing these camps year after year, and to our faculty, staff, student mentors and volunteers who invest their time and talents to make each one a success. Together, they create an engaging experience that not only introduces young people to STEM, but also welcomes them to our campus to experience Campbell University firsthand and discover the many opportunities that await them in science, engineering and healthcare.”
Campbell University’s STEM camps are designed to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers and healthcare professionals by combining engaging, hands-on learning with mentorship from faculty, staff and college student leaders. Each year, the University hosts separate middle school and high school STEM camps, introducing students to real-world scientific concepts while helping them discover the possibilities that await in STEM fields.
