VSU Summer Enrichment Program connects high school students with study of agriculture

Virginia State University is accepting applications through May 6 for its free Summer Enrichment Program that prepares high school students for a future in agriculture. The program will take place June 26 through July 1 on VSU’s campus and its nearby 417-acre Randolph Farm.

Open to high school juniors and seniors with an interest in science or agriculture, the college-immersion experience provides qualified students with experiential learning activities in the classroom, lab and field. It will focus on topics such as water and environmental issues, production of food and ornamental crops, and relationships between agriculture and the natural world.

The program, which will be conducted by the VSU Department of Agriculture, also will cover resume-building and career opportunities.

“Today’s students need to be exposed to the many issues and challenges related to agriculture and natural resources,” said Dr. Chris Catanzaro, interim chairman of the department. “It’s easier to get them excited once they see the relevance to their daily lives. What many people don’t realize is that agriculture and forestry are the leading employers in Virginia—by a lot. An agriculture degree enables students to pursue high-paying, recession-proof jobs either in the U.S. or internationally.”

Applicants are required to submit an online application, including a one-page essay describing career goals and reasons for interest in the program. The application is available at www.agriculture.vsu.edu/high-school-summer-programs.php. Applicants who are admitted will be notified no later than June 1.