Outreach events for high school students

At Penn State Wilkes-Barre, more than 100 different high schools and middle schools from the tri-state area recently competed in the Northeast Regional Science Olympiad.  A grass roots organization comprised of educators and citizens, the goal of the Olympiad is to stimulate interest in science through competition. The annual event is held at the Wilkes-Barre campus, and during the competition, students are awarded medals for their outstanding efforts. 

Also, the University offers a unique program entitled TEAMS (Tests of Engineering Aptitude, Mathematics and Sciences). This challenging activity helps students prepare for tomorrow's world-today. The TEAMS competition is a two part academic exam coordinated by JETS (Junior Engineering Testing Society) and is open to high school Junior Varsity and Varsity teams. During the event, students build their problem-solving skills and learn how to work cooperatively as a group. The competition is co-sponsored by the Pennsylvania Society of Professional Engineers, Luzerne County Chapter.

Another program is the Penn Stater for a Day initiative. Designed for both high school Juniors and Seniors who want the opportunity to experience what it's like to be a Penn State student. Those who participate have the chance to attend classes, meet the professors, and interact with other students and staff members. According to the Admissions office, this highly successful program has been in existence for more than five years. "During a recent University survey, incoming Freshmen rated this event as a deciding factor for choosing Penn State Wilkes-Barre," said Margie Esopi, Admissions Counselor.

To learn more about these programs, please call the Admissions department at 570-675-9238, or email [email protected].