SSC-9353177 National Aquarium in Baltimore Baltimore, Maryland James, Sylvia M. and Retina S. Jagan The National Aquarium in Baltimore is a major resource for marine and aquatic science in the mid-Atlantic region. Its live and interactive exhibits along with its on-site and outreach programs focus on creating an attitude of respect for the environment and the ecological balance of life. The Summer Camp will offer instruction in marine and aquatic science, hands-on projects and information on career strategies. Additionally, the program is designed to encourage the Junior Aquarists to continue their interest and involvement in the sciences beyond the four weeks of Summer Science Camp. As Junior Aquarists, participants are immersed in an environment unseen by general Aquarium Visitors -- the day to day routines involved with maintaining a world-class institution. They go behind-the-scenes and interact with professionals in the field. Students gain hands-on experience working alongside the individuals who have chosen to pursue careers as aquarists, mammalogists, herpetologists and aviculturists. Students acquire and understanding of the secondary and undergraduate educational requirements needed to pursue various fields of study and how "book learning" is applied to the real world. Finally, Junior Aquarists "do science" by designing, carrying out and presenting to their families and friends, research projects using the National Aquarium in Baltimore's renowned collection of poison arrow frogs. The program provides the foundation for a lifelong interest in science and research as well as an extended relationship with the Aquarium. Following participation in the NSF-funded Summer Science Camp program, students can continue to meet on a monthly basis as part of an ongoing Junior Aquarist Club. Further, completion of the Junior Aquarist program can be followed by participation in the High School Internship Program and ultimately the High School Studen t Guide program. The latter carries high school students through the Aquarium's rigorous seven-week volunteer training program, provides paying summer jobs and culminates in certification as full-fledged volunteer exhibit guides. While still in middle and high school, students can apply to the Henry Hall Scholarship Fund for additional marine science opportunities. Should students attend college, they are also eligible to participate in the Aquarium's College Internship Program. Therefore, the Junior Aquarist Summer Science Camp is not a four- week, one-shot experience. Rather, it is both the beginning of a potentially longlasting fascination with marine and aquatic science, and possibly the catalyst that produces a future scientist.
