About the NYSC®

In June 2004, the National Youth Science Camp® embarked on its 41st year of hosting the top two science students from each state in a program conducted in the Monongahela National Forest of West Virginia. The NYSC® recognizes the students’ academic achievements, leadership capability, and community service activities by inviting them to participate in an all-expenses-paid, four-week science education and leadership training program held the summer after they graduate from high school. The program’s immense and varied collection of activities encourages the evaluation of personal goals and social responsibilities and the development of thoughtful scientific leadership. The 2004 NYSC® was an unforgettable experience for many of its delegates.

Founded in 1963 as part of West Virginia's Centennial Celebration, the National Youth Science Camp® was designed to honor the nation’s most outstanding science students and to direct attention to the state’s scientific facilities. The program was fully funded by the state of West Virginia for twenty years, and in 1983, alumni of the NYSC® and supportive West Virginians formed the National Youth Science Foundation® to supplement funding from the state. This non-profit organization has annually raised funds from corporations, foundations, and individuals to ensure the program’s perpetuation. For forty-one years, the NYSC® has continued to challenge the intellect, broaden the scientific outlook, and touch the emotions of its participants through support from the Foundation along with substantial continued support from the State of West Virginia.

Delegates to the National Youth Science Camp® are graduating high school seniors who intend to pursue careers in science, medicine, mathematics, or engineering. A selection coordinator, who is appointed by the governor of each state, initiates a process to identify two students to represent that state as delegates to the NYSC®. In 2004, two delegates from Afghanistan and two delegates from Germany also participated. Delegates to the program are chosen through competitive processes that stress scholastic excellence, scientific curiosity, well-rounded interests, and leadership in school and community. Participation in the National Youth Science Camp® is an honor that has always been provided at no expense to its delegates (transportation included) so that selected individuals can attend regardless of their financial situations.

The academic components of the NYSC® feature a unique lecture series and many hands-on learning opportunities with recognized leaders from diverse scientific disciplines. The 2004 program’s presenters include: Dr. Holmes Morton, recipient of the Albert Schweitzer award for his work with genetic diseases among Amish children; Dr. Zoon Nguyen, President and CEO of American Radiation Oncology; and Dr. Dave Hackleman, former Chief Technologist for Hewlett-Packard Company. Visiting scientists travel from all over the world to discuss their research in the quiet beauty of the Monongahela National Forest. In addition to the outstanding lectures, directed studies, and seminars, delegates have reported that some of their most valuable and memorable experiences occur outside the designated instructional times. Many invited presenters remain onsite for several days, answering questions on everything from philosophy to career choices while interacting with the delegates at the dinner table, on the basketball court, or on the backpacking trail.

Delegates, guests, alumni, and staff of the program also have opportunities to present seminars on their own areas of expertise. Science fair projects, independent research, and hobbies provide material for seminars conducted by the program’s participants. With the diversity of delegate interests, it is not uncommon to have seminars on genetic research followed by a more eclectic topic such as Irish clog dancing. Alumni of the program frequently return to share their knowledge on subjects such as tissue engineering, fractals, and the anatomy of the human hand. Additionally, NYSC® staff members present programs in the natural, physical, and computer sciences and in the applied and performing arts.

From its ancient mountains to its white water rivers, West Virginia’s natural environment provides the perfect living laboratory and physical challenges for NYSC® delegates. Many delegates have the opportunity to explore the unique wilderness areas of Cranberry Glades and Dolly Sods while simultaneously learning from staff members and guests who specialize in the natural sciences. With the support of our experienced outdoor program directors, delegates also have the chance to hike along scenic trails, scale the heights of Nelson Rocks, kayak on the New River, and explore some of the numerous local caves. The program challenges each participant academically, physically, and emotionally while creating an environment of mutual support.

In late July, delegates travel to Washington D.C. for a Senate luncheon hosted by Senator Robert C. Byrd. Many delegates have the exciting and rare opportunity to meet and chat with Senators from their home state during the luncheon. The President’s Office of Science and Technology Policy also presents a panel discussion on Science Policy Formulation for the delegates at the National Academy of Sciences. This event emphasizes the critical role of knowledgeable and ethical scientific leaders in government. While in our nation’s capital, all delegates visit the Smithsonian Museums, the National Monuments, and the Marian Koshland Science Museum, many for the first time. These experiences extend beyond the topics of science and serve to broaden these young scientists’ understanding of their society and world.

The National Youth Science Camp® has already touched the lives of more than 4,000 men and women who have come to the mountains of West Virginia to discuss the frontiers of science. The experiences, knowledge, and friendships gained during the delegates’ stay in West Virginia endure long after the NYSC® program ends.

For more information, please visit the NYSC® website at www.nysc.org. Additional information about the NYSF® is available at www.nysf.com.