Sixteen–year–old Becca has made it her mission to change girls' attitudes about math and science. And through AstroTots, the space and science camp she founded, she's doing just that. AstroTots is designed for girls between the ages of 4 and 10, and through this camp, Becca's reached more than 1,000 girls. She works hard to promote an enthusiasm for science and math to girls who reside in inner–cities because she believes science education can be a way out of poverty. The camp has encouraged more than 100 science-minded girls to volunteer or start up their own community endeavors. And now, AstroTots is in 10 states.
While attending AstroTots, campers can create Martian landscapes out of clay, hang upside down while eating – just like real astronauts, and learn how craters develop by tossing chocolate chips into pudding. They also get the chance to launch a variety of rockets and watch a major model rocket launch.
Becca was inspired to start this camp after being told by friends and classmates that becoming an astronaut was a "boy's job". When she learned about Sally Ride, the first American woman and youngest American to reach outer space, Becca was determined to change that attitude among her peers.
AstroTots is funded by grants and donations, and has reached new heights through national attention and press. Becca is hoping to take this camp and her message – "Science is Cool...and not just for boys!" – around the world.
For more information about AstroTots, visit www.astrotots.org. Camps run for one week for two hours each morning and are completely free.
Keep up the great work Becca!
