What is the West Virginia Governor’s School for Mathematics and Science Green Bank?
The West Virginia Governor’s School for Mathematics and Science (GSMS) at the National Radio Observatory (NRAO) in Green Bank, WV is a summer residential program providing academic enrichment in the areas of science and math for rising 9th graders living in and attending school in West Virginia.
Who should apply to GSMS Green Bank?
Potential delegates to GSMS Green Bank must meet all of the following guidelines:
- Be available to participate in the entire GSMS Greenbank program;
- Demonstrate superior academic proficiency, including recognition in mathematics and/or the sciences;
- Demonstrate an application of leadership abilities and social maturity through involvement in both school and community activities;
- Demonstrate skills and achievements outside the realm of science and outside the realm of academic pursuits; and
- Demonstrate a curiosity and an eagerness to explore many and varied topics.
How do I apply?
For information about applying to GSMS Green Bank, please visit the Governor’s School of West Virgina program page. The National Youth Science Foundation operates GSMS Green Bank as part of the Governor’s Schools of West Virginia program, and student applications are handled through their selection processes.
How much does it cost to attend?
Students attend GSMS Green Bank at no expense. This has been true throughout the history of the camp so that selectees can attend regardless of their financial status.
What are the goals of GSMS Green Bank?
The Governor’s School for Mathematics and Science Green Bank honors, rewards, and encourages excellence in science. It creates an environment where young scientists of diverse backgrounds and interests may reap maximum benefits from interaction with one another and with visiting scientists. It strives to broaden, to inspire, and to encourage a sense of thoughtful scientific leadership among future scientists, engineers, mathematicians, and health care professionals.
How does GSMS achieve its goals?
Home to the world-class Robert C. Byrd Green Bank Telescope, the National Radio Astronomy Observatory provides a perfect setting for learning and exploration. The 2,700-acre NRAO facility is situated in a community contiguous with the Monongahela National Forest. The contrast between high-tech scientific instruments and the natural laboratory of the National Forest provides unique intellectual opportunities for GSMS Green Bank students.
To achieve the goals of GSMS, students pursue a research theme that links the concept of the nature of science with hands-on research in radio astronomy. Students use a 40-foot diameter radio telescope to investigate open-ended research problems that are designed to cover a variety of research situations. Projects range from measuring the hydrogen gas in the Milky Way to attempting to detect radio emission from the planets, to measuring the emission from black holes in distant galaxies. Student teams are given free access to the telescope for observing and collecting data. NRAO staff scientists act as advisers to the research teams, guiding students by asking question rather than giving answers.
The central research themes are enhanced with academic enrichment experiences including guest lectures, field trips and other activities that broaden students’ understanding of the role of scientific research in society. Two or three nationally recognized experts typically present guest lectures.
Where is the camp held?
GSMS Greenbank is held in Green Bank, WV at the National Radio Observatory. Students are housed in facilities on the NRAO campus, and visit recreation facilities located on and around the site. Because of the camp’s location, students have the opportunity to visit West Virginian landmarks like Seneca Rocks, Seneca Caverns, Bear town, and Cranberry Glades.
What happens on a typical day at GSMS Green Bank?
A typical day begins with a morning lecture from a guest scientist. After this, some groups of students leave to go on outdoor trips while the rest break up into small groups for their hands-on, small group directed studies facilitated by GSMS Green Bank’s staff of licensed teachers. The afternoon is reserved for activities such as seminars, athletic and recreational activities, art, and music typically guided by student mentors. While seminar topics can be scientific, they often depart from science and encompass the personal interests of students, mentors, and teachers. All activities challenge students to approach problems with creativity or to try something new. Activities range from fishing to philosophy, ballroom dancing to biological technologies. The atmosphere is purposefully informal. An evening science lecture follows dinner.
What is the outdoor adventure program like?
To reinforce and encourage well-rounded development, the GSMS Green Bank’s scientific program is supplemented by an outdoor adventure program. During camp, students have the opportunity to participate in day trips including caving, mountain biking or hiking. The National Radio Observatory also has facilities for traditional sports and games, such as baseball, soccer and swimming.