This model project is designed to raise the aspirations and preparation levels of young women in the middle and junior high school grades, which represents a strategic point in the academic development of women, to increase their awareness of the wide range of science and technology related career opportunities open to them provided they prepare themselves academically. These objectives are being realized by putting these students in direct and continuing contact with role models, both college students and professionals. The schedule of project activities includes three one-day programs at Georgia Tech, two for public schools and one for private schools. Approximately 300 students and 30 sponsors (teachers, counselors, parents) attend each session. Twenty to thirty women in various science and technology related careers, together with twenty college science students, interact with each group of students. Graduate students or faculty will provide laboratory demonstrations involving science or engineering projects. A follow-upn newsletter that will urge a response will be sent to each student in order that the impact of the program will be enhanced. The evaluation component of the project includes in depth surveys of students and counselors to determine changes in the types of curricula pursued, and changes in career plans as a result of participation. Future plans include the development of programs of longer duration in which young women would be in residence on the campus for several days. The network of presenters will be expanded to include faculty at neighboring institutions, such as the Communicable Disease Center.
