by: Lauren Tooley
Photo courtesy of TIME Program’s Home Page
Some may find it hard to believe, but there is a high school class that illustrates the beauty and creativity, along with the excitement and fun, of real science research. The TIME program is a science program at Brevard High School available to high school students in Transylvania County. It enables students to research a topic of their choosing with help from teachers, retired scientists, and other knowledgeable people in the community. The fact that the atmosphere in the TIME classroom is focused on discovery encourages students to participate.
While the TIME class facilitates research, it also encourages friendly competition. All of the projects are entered into at least one competition which further expands opportunities for students. Student projects travel from Transylvania County to Cullowhee to Raleigh. Once in Raleigh at the state level, some qualify for international science fairs around the country.
Typically, students are daunted by careers in science because of the long names and Latin words. TIME has helped students realize it is a real and practical field to pursue. Scientists help better our world and the TIME program shows students this importance. It also gives the students the opportunity to be the change. The research projects all have one common theme: Transylvania County. All of the projects use local resources or solve local problems, thus directly affecting the community they live in.
While many students are intimidated by the TIME program, there is an open learning environment which enables students to become experts on their individual topics. While students know their topic completely, they also learn about other people’s projects. It can truly expanded students’ knowledge of the world in general. It also provides students with many practical skills. “I am able to do what I am passionate about and gain many skills in the process, like public speaking as well as problem solving,” said TIME student Abby Williams.
Carly Onnink, a third year TIME student, elaborated, saying, “The program has given me the opportunity to experience real science by tackling an important problem not yet solved or fully explored. By doing this, not only have I become very dedicated to my project, but also passionate for a career in science.”
TIME sparks an unknown love of science in students. It also provides irreplaceable opportunities, like going traveling and competing against students from around the world. It is a privilege to have such a great program available to high school students in such a small community. The support this program gives to the students of Transylvania County is truly amazing and unique. Applications for the TIME program are due Tuesday, February 3rd. Visit www.time4realscience.org or contact Jennifer Williams for more information.