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BSA Dept Takes Scholars to USC and California Science Center

Media Release
 

45 scholars from McKinley Elementary School, McNair Elementary School, and Laurel Street Elementary School recently embarked on an unforgettable educational experience organized by the CUSD Black Student Achievement Department. The trip took students to the California Science Center, where they explored the wonders of space and ecosystems, followed by an eye-opening college tour at the University of Southern California (USC).

At the California Science Center, students delved into the exhibit "Mission to the Planets," where they learned how satellites are used to study Earth and its intricate systems. The exhibit provided hands-on opportunities for students to understand how scientists gather information about our planet from space, gaining a deeper appreciation for technology's role in scientific discovery.

In addition to exploring space science, students investigated ecosystems, learning how all elements—plants, animals, people, weather, water, and soil—are connected in a delicate balance. Through an interactive experience, they discovered amusing environments and explored the "Ten Zones of Ecological Principles," uncovering how everything in nature is interrelated. The exhibits sparked curiosity and encouraged critical thinking about environmental sustainability.

Following their scientific explorations, students shifted gears and headed to USC for a comprehensive college tour. The tour introduced students to the possibilities of higher education and allowed them to envision their own futures on a college campus. Students learned about various academic pathways, majors, and disciplines offered at USC. They also gained insight into tuition costs, scholarship opportunities, and the financial support available to help students achieve their educational goals.

The tour also gave students a glimpse into college life, from dorm living to the graduation requirements necessary for earning a degree. They learned about the support systems USC offers, including academic advising, tutoring, and partnerships with companies and organizations that provide job opportunities after graduation.

The trip was not only an opportunity for students to engage in STEM learning but also an inspirational journey to explore future academic and career possibilities. As the students left USC, many expressed excitement about pursuing their own pathways to success, equipped with new knowledge about both the natural world and their educational futures.