“My Future is so Bright I Have to Wear Shades”

“My Future is so Bright I Have to Wear Shades” was the theme for the summer Eureka! Open House. Eureka! is a five-year summer and school year program for girls focused on Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM). More than 120 people came through the door to kick start the Eureka! summer program - the energy in the room was tangible.

Planning for Summer Camp Fun

Girls raced to greet their Eureka! friends, planned for the exciting program activities ahead of them and took pictures at the photo station fully stocked with props (my personal favorite being the DNA double helix).

Future Doctors, Scientists and Leaders

As a science lover and current graduate student in genetic counseling, it was powerful to see this group of young women excited about science and the possibilities ahead of them. Looking around the decorated gym at YWCA Midtown, it was easy to envision the bright futures of this hardworking group of girls. I felt I was looking at the next generation of doctors, mathematicians, scientists and leaders.

Science for All

The night reminded me of a famous quote from Mae Jemison, an American engineer, physician and NASA astronaut: “We look at science as something very elite, which only a few people can learn. That's just not true. You just have to start early and give kids a foundation. Kids live up, or down, to expectations.”  The internships, various field trips and networking opportunities these girls gain through Eureka! give them the confidence to step into these roles and chase their dreams.

Volunteer with GenYWCA

Thanks to YWCA Eureka! Staff and GenYWCA volunteers, this was a fun and inspiring night for everyone. If you would like the chance to get involved with GenYWCA and support young women like those in Eureka!, join GenYWCA’s email list to learn about upcoming volunteer opportunities.

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