EnvironMentors Celebration!

EnvironMented
On Wednesday, students, mentors, and teachers from across the nation met at the Deptartment of Agriculture to celebrate their work in the 2008-09 EnvironMentors program. Students presented their research projects and competed for a number of scholarships that recognized achievement in creativity, scientific rigor, and relevance to the environment. The event was highlighted by keynote speaker, Dr. Cora Marrett, Acting Deputy Director of the National Science Foundation, who discussed the important role that hands-on, mentored research programs will play in developing the next generation of scientists.

It was a challenging and rewarding year for both Lalaram and me. This was his first foray into scientific research and the associated ups and downs that come with interesting results and failed experiments. He demonstrated persistence, fought through a number of technical challenges, and ultimately produced a product worthy of a college student.

As I watched Lalaram growth, I learned a great deal about what it takes to motivate someone, to inspire them to contribute their strengths, and to pursue endeavors that seem at the time beyond their abilities. It was a enormously satisfying experience. Lalaram is also one of the only people I can consistently beat at Guitar Hero III, which is a huge confidence booster. I mean, he’s played like two times, but still, he’s pretty bad. That probably won’t last long — he has vowed to beat me this summer.

To all my sciency friends, I encourage you to visit the EnvironMentors webpage and consider the opportunity. You are just one click away from getting EnvironMented!