The Congress of Future Science and Technology Leaders is a national program to honor high school students that are interested in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). However, many people who received letters inviting them to attend were suspicious that it was a scam. This is because of the cost to attend the program, which is about 1,000 dollars.
The trip itself, although expensive, is legitimate, as proven by junior Braden Contreras, who attended the three-day convention as a representative of Steinbrenner High School in the summer of 2017.
“A lot of people there are from different places. It’s a good opportunity to make friends. You also have some opportunities to speak to some of the scientists.” said Contreras.
The program held by the director of the National Academy of Future Scientist and Technologist, Dr. John C. Mather, includes presentations by academy winning scientists. It’s held at the Lowell Massachusetts Tsongas Center from June 29 to July 1, 2018. Delegate representatives from high schools all over the nation come for a three-day visit to experience what the program has to offer.
“The program was made to identify prospective talent at the earliest possible age and help these students acquire the necessary experience and skills to take them to the doorstep of these vital careers in science and technology,” according to the website for The National Academy of Future Scientists and Technologists. “The Academy provides students with compelling educational material and experiences to help prepare students for the challenges ahead and keep them focused and true to their dreams.”
So with the convention being legitimate and being very beneficial, those who got the invitation letter and want to major in a STEM, the program could be something to consider looking into.
Julia Peralta // Graphics Dept.
