More than 400 middle and high school students from public, private and home schools across the region experience hands-on opportunities in science, engineering and medicine through the Junior Academy. Corporations, science organizations and universities open their labs and research areas to these teens at a critical time…when they are laying the science and technology path for their future. By extracting DNA at the Genome Sequencing Center, meeting with leading-edge aerospace engineers at Boeing, experiencing an overnight at the Shaw Nature Reserve, working in the dissection lab at Saint Louis University and having access to the best university libraries, Junior Academy members realize the importance of an interdisciplinary approach to discovery and a strong, early grounding in math and science. Recognizing that each child has potential, Junior Academy membership is open and available to all middle and high school students in the area and offers challenging and engaging science competitions and opportunities for a full range of academic levels. Thanks to donations, Junior Academy memberships start at $30 and scholarships are available to students in need.

Melissa won with her project titled The Doppler Effect and has spent 3 days competing in rigorous science challenges at the world-renowned Goddard Space Flight Center, located near Washington, D.C.

Upon receiving the award, an excited Melissa was effusive in her appreciation to the Academy of Science-St. Louis and her membership in the Jr. Academy of Science.  Prior to her trek to NASA  for the hands-on science competition, Academy corporate friend, Boeing, recognized Melissa with a special tour, lunch and simulation experience.