Anchorage, Alaska
As a first-time ANSEP student, Katelynn Houser soaked up every single second of her Middle School Academy experience earlier this year. From participating in STEM activities to making new friends and living on a college campus for the first time, Katelynn says she loved every moment.
“I like that there is always something going on. It’s also a great way to meet people and participate in new activities,” Katelynn said. “Middle School Academy helps us learn about different areas of science, engineering and math that we don’t get to learn about in school. Then, we go back to school and take all of this stuff with us to share with our classmates – it’s really cool.”
A sixth-grade student from College Gate Elementary in Anchorage, Katelynn is already finding her niche at ANSEP and using her experiences to shape a path for the future.
“The computer build was definitely my favorite activity, but testing drones was also fun because we got to play with the thermal camera,” she said. “I’m really interested in math, science and animals, so I’m thinking about becoming a marine biologist, veterinarian or mechanical engineer one day.”
Katelynn recalls the lunch presentation by Dr. Sylvia Earle during ANSEP Celebration in January, and she cites it as a source of inspiration for her potential future in marine biology.
“I remember when Dr. Sylvia talked about loving water when she was younger,” said Katelynn. “It was definitely relatable for me because I love animals, swimming and just being in the water.”
According to Katelynn, her time and experience at ANSEP are far from over, and she plans to apply for more components in the future.
