Summer Program Highlight: Meet Angela

It’s summer program season at Minds Matter and we are thrilled to share more about Angela’s experience attending Urban Farming Camp at Indiana Wesleyan University. Read on to learn more about her adventures with worms, fulfilling her lifelong dream of wearing a bee suit, and making friends in unexpected places.

Q: Why did you pick this summer program? 

A: I originally choose Social Work and Social Justice Camp but since I was the only one who signed up for it, I was switched to Urban Farming Camp. I’m so glad Indiana Wesleyan University placed me in that camp instead because I had the best time of my life and made long lasting friendships.

Q: What was your favorite part of the program? 

A: I didn’t have a favorite aspect of the program because I looked forward to every single one. We made tie dye t-shorts using natural substances from plants and made homemade soaps using wax and essential oil. Not only did we learn about different kinds of bees, but we also wore bee suits! I have always dreamed of wearing one.

Q: What did you learn about yourself during your summer program? 

A: I learned that I wasn’t scared of worms like I thought. In fact, I got to hold 10-15 worms!

Q: What advice would you give other Minds Matter students about summer programs? 

A: Even if you don’t get into your first-choice summer program, make the best of the second one!

As part of the Minds Matter experience, students can participate in summer programs of their choosing. Students are encouraged to explore their interests and pursue their curiosities, spending time during their afternoon sessions researching programs with their mentors. Students have enjoyed participating in a wide range of unique programs ranging from Ancient Medicine at Brown University to Astro Bio-Engineering at Syracuse. With support from our donors, Minds Matter covers the cost of these programs for every student, including airfare, tuition, and lodging.