Apply to be a 2018 GeoGirl

GeoGirls is a geology and technology field camp for middle school girls graduating from 7^th and 8^th grade. It is a chance to explore volcanoes and how scientists monitor them. It is also a time for girls build science confidence, camp and hike in the outdoors and work with professional women scientists. 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. In 2018, 25 girls from Oregon and Washington will be selected. 10 girls will come from Clark County, WA. This program is free of charge.

Important Dates:

APPLICATIONS OPEN: January 3, 2018

APPLICATIONS DUE:

• Online application or scanned paper application submitted by email:  March 15, 2018 (at 5:00 pm)
• Paper application submitted by mail: Received by MSHI March 15, 2018 (at 5:00 pm)

SELECTIONS ANNOUNCED: April 23, 2018 (by email)

GEOGIRLS: July 29-August 2, 2018

How to Apply:

1.  Complete and submit your application in one of the two following ways:

   1. Complete the online GeoGirls application.

   2. Complete a paper application and ask your teacher to scan and send it to learn@mshinstitute.org OR send your paper application by mail to:

      Mount St. Helens Institute

      Attn.: GeoGirls

      42218 NE Yale Bridge Rd.

      Amboy, WA 98601

2. The application consists of:
   • applicant and parent information 
   • a few short essays and questions
3. Ask a teacher to complete an online teacher recommendation form. 

Tips for Applying:

• Be sure to complete all application materials by March 1, 2018!  This includes double-checking with your teacher to make sure he/she has 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 GeoGirl applicant herself.