STEM Camp teaching students valuable lessons over spring break

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Students across the Valley may be on spring break but some are heading to the classroom to take advantage of a new program.

Curiosity came to life for 4th-6th graders at STEM Camp. "Camp is awesome because I like engineering and math, and like, I like building stuff," said Gwynevere Vang, 5th grade.

Vang said she's still deciding if she wants to be an engineer or pharmacist. The 10-year-old's favorite stem camp activity so far--the egg drop.

"We came up with a lot of fun ideas, and we wrapped it just like a present," said Vang.

Teaching campers about science and teamwork. "For the egg project, we took turns with it," said Vang.

"My whole team, we worked together and it didn't crack," said Evan Lee, 6th grade.

"They're getting the chance to get more hands on activities with groups," said Ludie Olenchalk, Fresno State Credential Program.

The camp covering science, technology, engineering, and math at Stone Soup is made possible by Fresno State's alternative spring break. For an 8th year 35 University students are using their time off to serve the community.

"It's an alternative option for students who want to give back to the community, and try to have a better impact on the community itself," said Ramiro Merino, Fresno State 2nd year.

Communications major and team leader Merino said he's donated his time over spring break since middle school, but he enjoys getting to give back to the Fresno community.

"Basically we just want to help the kids, educate them about these fields, and make kids aware that they can pursue them," said Merino.

In addition to STEM, there are also meal preparation programs and beautification projects going on at Scout Island and the Ronald McDonald House.