This summer, young minds from across Houston explored science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) through immersive, hands-on experiences at the University of Houston College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics’ Full STEM Ahead! and Cougar Summer STEM Camps.
Both weeklong programs sparked creativity and curiosity among Junior Scientists and campers as they tackled real-world challenges, conducted experiments, and engaged with UH faculty and researchers.
Engineering, Innovation and Discovery
At Full STEM Ahead!, students explored the engineering design process by building bridges, rubber band–powered race cars, cork-launching rockets, and catapults. The classic Egg Drop Challenge tested their problem-solving skills, while buoyancy experiments helped them understand physics in action.
Over at the Cougar Summer STEM Camp, participants applied principles of motion and aerodynamics in a series of engineering challenges, including catapult launches, motorized boat races and the crowd-favorite Raft Rally.
Chemistry, Biology and Beyond
Campers rolled up their sleeves for chemistry sessions featuring bubbling lava lamps, DIY slime and colorful “messy science” experiments to learn about viscosity, density and chemical reactions.
In the biology labs, Junior Scientists examined frog anatomy, built terrariums, and explored ecosystems and cells. At the Cougar camp, participants simulated disease transmission in the Glo Germ Lab and explored heart health and exercise science.
Technology, Robotics and Data Science
Technology took center stage as students used UH’s 3D Printing Lab to design custom keychains while learning the fundamentals of modeling and engineering. They also analyzed data in a bowling alley experiment and used AI tools to optimize car designs.
A highlight of Full STEM Ahead! was a visit from Dr. Weihang Zhu and his team, who demonstrated how virtual reality and robotics are transforming real-world systems—like a robotic mushroom-harvesting model that captured every camper’s imagination.
Exploring Physics Through Fun
From electromagnetism and oscillations to motion and force, physics experiments were anything but ordinary. Students even synced spring rhythms to music, merging science and creativity in a one-of-a-kind exploration of energy and movement.
A Celebration of Curiosity and Achievement
Both camps culminated in a celebration recognizing each participant’s enthusiasm, teamwork and innovation.
Inspiring Future STEM Leaders
The University of Houston College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics continues to foster a love of science and technology through outreach programs designed to engage the next generation of innovators.
For more information about UH STEM outreach programs, visit the NSM website.