Kindergarten-Grade 12 (K-12) Program @ University of Southern Mississippi
The University of Southern Mississippi School of Polymers and High Performance Materials will host a polymer science high school recruitment day from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 7 on the Hattiesburg campus.
Targeted for high school juniors and seniors, the event will give participants the opportunity to conduct experiments covering several research topics as well as participate in recreational activities.
The event is organized by the Polymer Science Association, a student group composed of graduate and undergraduate polymer science majors.
The day’s activities begin at 9 a.m. with hands-on experiments of polymer science in action. Students will be able to learn about coating spray processes, making foam and other polymer science applications.
After lunch, the students will be able to take part in a volleyball tournament, take campus tours and hear about scholarship opportunities.
James Rawlins, assistant professor of polymer science and PSA adviser, is one of several of faculty members who will be involved in the day’s activities.
“Our goal is to increase awareness about science and technology, and polymer science in particular,” said Rawlins. “We’ll show these students some cool stuff and hopefully get them interested in becoming a student here at Southern Miss.”
Kristin Hamilton, president of the student association, encourages students and teachers to attend. “All students interested in cutting-edge science and technologies are encouraged to attend. And teachers are welcome to bring an entire class,” Hamilton said.