Virginia State University AgDiscovery summer program

ARE YOU...

• a middle or high school student looking for a unique summer internship with an opportunity to live and study on a college campus?

• a high school student looking to improve your resume for college?

• a teacher looking for opportunities to expand your students’ view of

agriculture?

• a parent looking for learning opportunities for your teen?

Look no further... the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) offers you an opportunity of a lifetime.

WHAT IS AGDISCOVERY?

AgDiscovery is an outreach program to help teenagers learn about careers in plant and animal science, wildlife management, and agribusiness. The program allows students to live on a college campus and learn about agriculture from university professors, scientists, and administrative profes- sionals who work for the U.S. Government in a variety of fields. They study the life cycles and habits of insects (entomologists); research micro-organ- isms, such as bacteria and viruses (biotechnologists); examine cells and tissues under a microscope to identify diseases (plant pathologists); work to conserve and manage wild animals and their habitats (wildlife biologists); carry out animal health programs (veterinarians); provide education on

the humane care and treatment of animals (veterinarians and animal care inspectors); and manage the business aspects of protecting plants and animals (agribusiness).

This 2- to 4-week summer boarding program for 2012 targets middle and high school students1 who are interested in learning more about plants, animals, and agribusiness. Students chosen to participate in AgDiscov- ery will gain experience through hands-on labs, workshops, and field trips. Students will also participate in character- and team-building activi- ties and a variety of workshops.

VIRGINIA STATE UNIVERSITY

June 24–July 8, 2012

Students gain hands-on experience in the disciplines of veterinary science and food safety under the “farm-to-table” theme. Participants also observe small ruminants and on-farm processing techniques. Students reside on campus in a dormitory and learn field and laboratory research techniques from university professors. Field trips and guest speakers provide en- hanced exposure to agricultural production and research. This program is facilitated by the Virginia State University (VSU) School of Agriculture, with collaboration from USDA partners and industry representatives.

Contact: Antonio McLaren, (804) 524-6872, amclaren@vsu.edu; Paula McCapes, (804) 524-5839, pmccapes@vsu.edu

Founded in 1882 by an act of the State legislature, VSU is the Nation’s first fully State-supported historically black college or university. With a mis- sion emphasizing the integration of academic instruction, research, and public service, VSU welcomes students of any race, religion, or ethnic heritage. VSU also owns and operates a 416-acre farm and agricultural research center. The university embraces diversity and continues to work on internationalizing the campus—particularly through opportunities offered by its Office for International Education to educate tomorrow’s leaders and address global challenges.