County Students Present Projects at Rutgers

COURT HOUSE – Improving methods of making elastomeric robots, using conscious thought to control computer applications, employing wireless sensors to detect injuries to dancers, and developing SmartPhone games to aid physical therapy were among the research projects presented last week by 88 New Jersey Governor’s School of Engineering & Technology students.
Governor’s School scholars are high school students entering their senior year who were selected for the program from more than 300 applicants. Among the scholars who presented research projects on July 26 at the Rutgers University’s New Brunswick campus were Cole Carlin (Ocean City); and Kaitlyn Fox (Seaville). Students worked in small groups during the four-week program.
“The Governor’s School is an important program that sparks students’ interest in math and science. Many graduates of the program have made important contributions, and we are very proud of the research students presented last month at Rutgers,” said Secretary of Higher Education Rochelle Hendricks, whose office administers State funding for the Governor’s School.
Hosted by the School of Engineering, students live on the Rutgers campus during the summer. Emphasis is placed on solving complex issues that exist on a local, state, national, and international level. The scholars participated in college-level courses and a variety of life-skills workshops. They visited local corporations and engaged in activities that will help them connect with professors, professionals, and peers throughout the state.
“The students went through an application process after being nominated by their high schools. All nominated students had to have outstanding grades and SAT scores, write personal statements and submit two letters of recommendation,” according to Ilene Rosen, director of the Governor’s School of Engineering & Technology. Over three hundred applications were received for the 88 available spots, Rosen said.
This year’s program was funded by the State of New Jersey, Rutgers University, Morgan Stanley, Lockheed Martin, South Jersey Industries, Inc., and New Jersey Resources.