Media Day at camp where middle schoolers explore math and science

WHAT: They've ditched their skateboards and dropped their jump ropes to spend two weeks at a free summer science camp. Local middle school youth are experiencing a different kind of vacation that includes summer fun, an opportunity to get ahead in school and a chance to experience college life.

As a part of the ExxonMobil Bernard HarrisSummer Science Camp Media Day, campers will compete as they attempt to build a raft to "Escape from Harris Island" with as many crew members and supplies as possible. They'll also conduct hands-on experiments, participate in highly interactive demonstrations, and learn about engineering and other science careers with ExxonMobil engineers and scientists.

WHO: 48 middle schoolers from traditionally underrepresented populations from St. Louis and Metro East school districts

Mary C. Mohr, camp director and WUSTL Science Outreach program coordinator

ExxonMobil engineers and scientists

WHEN:9:30-11:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 17. The camp runs every weekday, June 14-26 at Washington University.

WHERE: Washington University in St. Louis

Lower level of Mallinckrodt Center, 6445 Forsyth Blvd., on the Washington University Danforth Campus. For information on media day, conact Dana Benedicktus at (314) 935-6846; cell (314) 724-2297.

VISUAL: Campers building rafts and sailing them across water in a competition.

WHY: Studies show that the United States is facing a critical shortage of engineers, scientists and other technically trained workers. To help address this crisis, former astronaut Bernard Harris, the first African American to walk in space, and ExxonMobil are providing 30 free two-week summer camps across the country that offer innovative math and science programs to encourage middle school students to stay in school, develop their knowledge and foster their interest to eventually pursue careers in these fields.

Participating students were selected based on grades, teacher nominations and interest in math and science. Washington University in St. Louis is hosting the camp for a third year.