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During the course of the overnight field-based camp, girls will tour Mount St. Helens, visit researchers in action, conduct a focused research project with real scientists, visit the USGS Cascades Volcano Observatory and conduct a volcanic crisis mission that builds on concepts learned throughout the week. This program is FREE for all youth.
Program Details
Applications are open January 15 - March 15. Learn more about applying!
Who participates in GeoGirls?
- 20 girls (cis and transgender) graduating from 7th and 8th grade from Oregon and Washington
- 4 girls (cis and transgender) graduating from 10th-12th grade from Oregon and Washington
- 4 female middle school or high school science teachers (cis and transgender) from Oregon and Washington
Where does GeoGirls take place?
Families are responsible for transporting their girls to the drop off location and picking them up at the end of the camp. MSHI provides all transportation during the week.
- Drop-off location is at Cascades Volcano Observatory in Vancouver, Washington.
- Our camp takes place for 4 days at the Science and Learning Center at Coldwater. This is our home base and is a visitors center open to the public daily from 10AM - 4PM with fantastic views of Mount St. Helens, access to hiking trails and recreation on Coldwater Lake, indoor restrooms, exhibits, a campground, and a dining hall. The Science and Learning Center is located in the blast zone from the May 18, 1980 eruption.
- During camp we also visit the Trail of Two Forests & Ape Cave, the USGS Cascades Volcano Observatory and the Mount St. Helens Visitors Center at Seaquest State Park.
- Pickup location is at Cascades Volcano Observatory in Vancouver, Washington.
When is GeoGirls Camp?
GeoGirls typically takes place in mid-August. This year, it is Monday, August 4 - Friday, August 8, 2025.
How much does it cost?
GeoGirls is free to participants thanks to grants, business sponsorships, and generous donors! You can support GeoGirls by donating today.
How are GeoGirls selected?
GeoGirls participants are selected by application. GeoGirls is open to girls in Washington and Oregon.
- 2025 APPLICATIONS OPEN: January 2, 2025
- 2025 APPLICATIONS CLOSE: March 1, 2025
How do I apply?
Applications for GeoGirls and High School Mentors are open January 15 - March 15. Scientist Volunteers and Teacher Mentor applications open January 15 and are open until filled. Learn more here.
"GeoGirls is unique because it offers amazing opportunities for students who identify as female or nonbinary to grow and learn more about science from women who are in the many different STEM professions. This program gives students the chance to see that they do belong in a field where women are typically underrepresented, and helps to create sparks within each girl."
2024 GeoGirl
GeoGirls is a program for middle-school girls (inclusive of trans) that builds interest in earth science and confidence in both individual and collaborative pursuits. It helps take the mystery out of what it means to be a scientist and exposes youth to types/topics of science that they never knew existed or want to learn more about."
2024 GeoGirl
GeoGirls is only possible with the help of our fantastic science volunteers. Read and see photos about GeoGirls research projects!
FAQ
How do I share this opportunity with others?
We love it when people spread the word about this amazing program! You can send them the link to this site (www.mshinstitute.org/geogirls) or post this flyer all about GeoGirls.
My daughter is a GeoGirl. Can I visit that week?
Parents are welcome at the end of the week for poster presentations at Cascades Volcano Observatory in Vancouver, WA. If your daughter or family has extenuating circumstances, please contact us and we will work with you to best meet her needs.
How do you communicate with parents during the week of GeoGirls? Can I call my daughter?
We will communicate with parents if there are any emergencies. If you don't hear from us, that is good news! It means everything is going well. Parents receive a detailed packet of information before camp begins that will answer all your questions about communication and what to expect before, during, and after camp.
We don't take devices away from students but we strongly encourage them to focus on the activities during camp. There is no cell service at the site and wi-fi is turned off before 10 am and after 4 pm.
If there is an emergency and you need to contact your camper, please contact us at 360-207-1777.
I am a member of the press. Can I attend for a day?
Yes! We typically have a media day on Thursday during GeoGirls. Contact us at learn@mshinstitute.org for details.
Does this program get any media coverage?
Yes! Every year there is social and print media coverage of GeoGirls. Here are some past examples:
I have so many questions! Who do I talk to?
You can email us at learn@mshinstitute.org.
Apply
Apply to be a GeoGirl
GeoGirls are girls (cis and transgender) graduating from 7th and 8th grade in Oregon and Washington. Applications CLOSED March 1, 2025. You must complete both application steps to be considered.
- Complete the online GeoGirls application
- Ask a teacher to complete an online Teacher Recommendation Form.
Tips for applying:
- Be sure to complete all application materials by the application deadline! This includes double-checking with your teacher to make sure they have completed your recommendation form.
- Let your personality shine! We are looking for a diverse set of girls and selections will be based on each applicant’s interest in science, social and/or financial need, and how participation in this program can benefit her. Girls will be selected to develop a diverse team, reflective of the community.
- Before you begin your application, read over this criteria guide to help you understand how we will make decisions about GeoGirls selections. When you write your essays, be sure to include information about yourself that lets us know how you fit these criteria.
- The application essays are a chance for us to get to know you: what is your interest in the program and how do you think you can benefit from the program. Before you submit your application, read over your essays and ask yourself:
- Does this sound like me?
- Did I let them know why I am excited about GeoGirls?
- Did I let them know how I think GeoGirls could benefit me?
- Application essays must be written by the GeoGirls applicant herself.
More information about applications:
- GeoGirls applications undergo a thorough review process by multiple reviewers who are professional female geoscientists and Mount St. Helens Institute staff and volunteers. Applicants are evaluated on the following criteria. Read more in our tips for applicants!
- We do NOT interview applicants. Please provide as much detail as possible in your application so we can get our best sense of how special YOU are!
- Our most challenging aspect about reviewing GeoGirls applications is when applicants list email addresses that are spelled incorrectly especially for teacher recommenders. Please double and triple check the spelling of your email, your parent/guardian email and your teacher email before submitting your application. Thank you!
- We do NOT hold spots in GeoGirls for future years. If you apply and are accepted and cannot attend our camp, we encourage you to apply in future years.
- We are VERY strict with holding the age requirements listed on our website for applicants. If you are not old enough, we encourage you to apply when you reach the correct age! We will not review or accept applicants who are out of the listed age range.
- The application deadline for High School Mentors and Middle School GeoGirls youth is the same deadline. Both applications require recommendations from teachers.
We are so excited about your interest in GeoGirls!
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to our education team by emailing learn@mshinstitute.org.
Apply to be a High School Mentor
High school mentors are girls (cis and transgender) graduating from 10th-12th grade in Oregon and Washington. Applications CLOSED March 1, 2025. You must complete both application steps to be considered.
- Complete the online GeoGirls application
- Ask a teacher to complete an online Teacher Recommendation Form.
As one of four High School Mentors, you will...
- Participate in GeoGirls as mentors for a team of middle school GeoGirls throughout the week
- Participate in activities as a student leader, modeling the 3 R's: respect for self, others & place
- Lead morning and evening checklists for your middle school group to help them get prepared for the day’s activities
- Lead a group debrief at the conclusion of research projects on Day 3 and Day 4 to reflect on the research project and what was learned
- Present about the group’s experience participating in research projects to the larger GeoGirls camp in the evening
- Organize middle school group members to present on the group’s experience participating in research projects to the larger GeoGirls camp during dinner or at other times
- Design and organize the final poster Storymap project
- Lead the group in presenting the final Storymap poster project to parents and guardians on the final day of camp
- Assist with other parts of making camp special for all involved!
Tips for applying:
- Be sure to complete all application materials by the application deadline! This includes double-checking with your teacher to make sure they have completed your recommendation form.
- Let your personality shine! We are looking for a diverse set of girls and selections will be based on each applicant’s interest in science, social and/or financial need, and how participation in this program can benefit her. Girls will be selected to develop a diverse team, reflective of the community.
- Before you begin your application, read over this criteria guide to help you understand how we will make decisions about GeoGirls selections. When you write your essays, be sure to include information about yourself that lets us know how you fit these criteria.
- The application essays are a chance for us to get to know you: what is your interest in the program and how do you think you can benefit from the program. Before you submit your application, read over your essays and ask yourself:
- Does this sound like me?
- Did I let them know why I am excited about GeoGirls?
- Did I let them know how I think GeoGirls could benefit me?
- Application essays must be written by the GeoGirls applicant herself.
More information about applications:
- GeoGirls applications undergo a thorough review process by multiple reviewers who are professional female geoscientists and Mount St. Helens Institute staff and volunteers. Applicants are evaluated on the following criteria. Read more in our tips for applicants!
- We do NOT interview applicants. Please provide as much detail as possible in your application so we can get our best sense of how special YOU are!
- Our most challenging aspect about reviewing GeoGirls applications is when applicants list email addresses that are spelled incorrectly especially for teacher recommenders. Please double and triple check the spelling of your email, your parent/guardian email and your teacher email before submitting your application. Thank you!
- We do NOT hold spots in GeoGirls for future years. If you apply and are accepted and cannot attend our camp, we encourage you to apply in future years.
- We are VERY strict with holding the age requirements listed on our website for applicants. If you are not old enough, we encourage you to apply when you reach the correct age! We will not review or accept applicants who are out of the listed age range.
- The application deadline for High School Mentors and Middle School GeoGirls youth is the same deadline. Both applications require recommendations from teachers.
We are so excited about your interest in GeoGirls!
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to our education team by emailing learn@mshinstitute.org.
Apply to be a Teacher Mentor
Teacher mentors are female (cis and transgender) middle school or high school science teachers in Oregon and Washington. Applications are now OPEN; open until filled.
Teacher Mentors will assist with all camp logistics, including:
- Provide a bridge between scientist mentors and the youth participants.
- Be responsible for a group of 5 middle school GeoGirls and 1 High School Mentor. Duties include driving your group, participating in camp activities with your group, supervising your group for safety and well-being, identifying and responding to behavioral issues, and being a consistent and compassionate role model.
- Assist Mount St. Helens Institute staff with program logistics such as dining hall management, getting youth ready with field gear, activity setup & clean-up.
Find out more information about this paid position, including how to apply, here.
Apply to be a GeoGirls Science Volunteer!
Science Volunteers are female (cis and transgender) geoscientists who design & lead research projects. Applications are OPEN with priority review beginning March 1, 2025. Applications open until filled.
The roles of GeoGirls Science Mentors are varied and include leading field-based activities, guided hikes, and helping with management and flow of camp.
- All volunteers who participate in GeoGirls become part of a supportive, fun, and close-knit community of female geoscience professionals.
- Together we facilitate an empowering, adventuresome experience for the middle school and high school age GeoGirls and build community between ourselves as geoscience professionals.
- Some GeoGirls Science Mentors participate for the full length of the program; some join for just a day.
- Please be as specific in your application as possible and share ideas! Creativity from volunteers such as yourself is a huge part of what makes GeoGirls so special.
You can find the application here.
Past Program Highlights
Thank you to our amazing team! Want to get involved? Apply to be a Teacher Mentor, Science Volunteer, or staff member for 2026!
GeoGirls Staff and Volunteers
GeoGirls staff and volunteers make the magic happen!
2024 GeoGirls Science Volunteers
Who are GeoGirls Science Volunteers?
Earth Scientists from the USGS Cascades Volcano Observatory, UNAVCO, Washington State Department of Natural Resources, University of Washington, Oregon State University, and other academic institutions who volunteer to share their enthusiasm and expertise with GeoGirls. Volunteers come from a variety of backgrounds and levels, including USGS researchers and staff, graduate students, and faculty members, and all are eager to help inspire girls to pursue careers in the geosciences!
Want to get involved? We rely on volunteers like YOU!
Are you excited about making a difference in the life of young people? Inquire today with our non-binding online GeoGirls volunteer interest form to learn more and to be part of this amazing program!
2024 GeoGirls Science Volunteers
- Elizabeth Westby | U.S. Geological Survey Cascades Volcano Observatory | GeoGirls Program Lead
- Alysa Adams | Washington State Parks | Career Panel & Ranger Presentation
- Amy Rudko | Washington State Department of Natural Resources | Research project lead
- Angela Deglandon | Research project lead
- Angie Diefenbach | U.S. Geological Survey Cascades Volcano Observatory | Research project lead
- Chelsea Bekemeier | Colorado State University | Research project lead
- Elaine Collins | U.S. Geological Survey Cascades Volcano Observatory | Research project lead
- Kate Allstadt | U.S. Geological Survey Cascades Volcano Observatory | Research project lead
- Kathryn (Katey) Queen | Research project lead
- Katie Akers | U.S. Forest Service | Career Panel
- Luan Heywood | University of Washington | Research project lead
- Samantha Motz | University of California, Santa Cruz | Research project lead
- Suki Smaglik | Yakima Valley College | Research project lead
- Kellie Wall | U.S. Geological Survey Cascades Volcano Observatory | Research project lead
- Jessica Bersson | Research project lead
- Emily Montgomery-Brown | U.S. Geological Survey Cascades Volcano Observatory | Research project lead
2025 GeoGirls Mount St. Helens Institute Staff
Mount St. Helens Institute education staff are hired based on their passion and experience educating youth. All staff have extensive training on working with youth, wilderness first aid and CPR and undergo extensive background checks.
- Gina Roberti, Youth Education & Rental Programs Manager, Mount St. Helens Institute
- Abi Groskopf, Co-Executive Director, Mount St. Helens Institute
- Rachel Hutchinson, Youth Education and Rental Programs Coordinator, Mount St. Helens Institute
- Luke Menzie, Seasonal Science Educator, Mount St. Helens Institute
- Elizabeth Folkers, Seasonal Science Educator, Mount St. Helens Institute
- Sarah Cravy, Seasonal Science Educator, Mount St. Helens Institute
- Celia Pratt, Seasonal Cook, Mount St. Helens Institute
- Ian Reed, Seasonal Cook & Custodian, Mount St. Helens Institute
2024 GeoGirls Teacher Mentors
- Marla Haugen | Middle school science teacher, Pullman School district, Pullman WA
- Sami Brisson | Olympia Waldorf School, Olympia WA
- Amy Gerdes | K 12 Teacher, curriculum development, Kents School District & others, Auburn WA
- Madison Meyer | Middle School Teacher Oakville Schools, Tumwater WA
Past Staff and Volunteers
It takes a village! Thanks to all our past staff and volunteers.
GeoGirls Partners
GeoGirls partners provide support to the GeoGirls program in a number of ways - through collaborative planning of the program, use of science equipment, support of their employees' participation in GeoGirls, and more! We are grateful for their support!
GeoGirls Sponsors
Support the GeoGirls program at Mount St. Helens Institute, a unique 5-day geology and technology camp for girls in Oregon and Washington. Explore the volcanic eruption's impact, learn about hazards, and discover the tech used by scientists. It's an exclusive experience within the 1980 eruption area, partnering with scientific institutions for hands-on learning. Your donation fuels STEM empowerment and inspires future female scientists amidst Mount St. Helens' extraordinary landscape.
Read more about the impact of GeoGirls in this newsletter article "GeoGirls Rock! Geology and technology camp at Mount St. Helens encourages and supports the next generation of scientists" by Gina Roberti, Youth Education & Rental Programs Manager, Mount St. Helens Institute.
Special thanks to the Honorable Frank L and Arlene G Price Foundation and individual donors like YOU!
$
to send each GeoGirl to Mount St. Helens for the week
Donate
This program would not be possible without the generous support of our sponsors, grantmaking foundations, and donors like you!
Calling all GeoGirls Alumni!
Did you participate in GeoGirls in past years? Are you the parent, guardian, friend or colleague of someone who has participated in GeoGirls in the past?
Keep us updated with your contact information and stories about your life as impacted by your experience with GeoGirls - complete our GeoGirls Alumni Updated Contact & Stories Form! Share this with friends and contacts who have participated in GeoGirls. If you were a Teacher Mentor or Science Mentor, consider completing our GeoGirls Science Mentor Testimonial form to share about your experience!
MSHI jobs, programs, and opportunities
- Join the Mount St. Helens Institute email list and receive our monthly e-Newsletter, Rumblings.
- Consider job opportunities with the Mount St. Helens Institute - check out what is available on our careers page!
- Explore our FREE online resources about Mount St. Helens created by Mount St. Helens Institute staff to further your learning.
- Visit with friends or family places you explored during GeoGirls! Consider other summer camps and programs with the Mount St. Helens Institute such as Family Adventure Camp, Base Camp & Sky and Star Party!
USGS jobs, programs, and opportunities
- Stay connected with the U.S. Geologic Survey Cascades Volcano Observatory by following on USGS Volcanoes social media and signing up for volcano alerts. Reach out to Holly Weiss-Racine (hweiss-racine@usgs.gov) for information about internships and more!
- Considering jobs with the U.S. Geological Survey, U.S. Forest Service or other government agencies? Check out USA jobs - the U.S. government jobs web portal. There is a special webpage for Students & Recent Graduates.
Other Opportunities
- Stay connected with a network of female geoscientists by joining or following the Association of Women Geoscientists!
- Consider joining the Earth Science Women's network.
- Check out the new international GeoGirls partner program in Chile!
