STEM in Motion

June 9-13, 2024
Florida

STEM in Motion is a program geared towards 9-12 grade students interested in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. This opportunity incorporates travel with educational opportunities to interact in a real-world setting and career-oriented pathways.

Students will also get the opportunity to gain 1-college credit in science for going on the trip and completing coursework upon return. College credit is offered through George Mason University.

Who should apply?

  • Youth in grades 9, 10, or 11
  • Youth who are interested in STEM or STEM careers.
  • Youth who are willing to learn, be hands on, and problem solve

How to Apply

  • Youth will apply through the Worldstrides link to our trip.
    • Trip ID is 208748
    • Or call 800-468-5899 to register
  • It is a simple, easy process with only a $49 down payment for the trip.

General Trip Information

  • Everything will be provided through a travel company, Worldstrides.
  • Everything is included in the price of the trip except tips and souvenirs.
  • Transportation to and from the Des Moines airport will be the member’s responsibility.
  • Two adult chaperones will be selected to attend the STEM in Motion trip with the Iowa delegation. These two adult chaperones are usually state staff members of the Iowa 4-H Youth Development program.

Financial Information

  • The estimated value of this opportunity is over $2,800 per delegate. Remember this price includes everything except tipping and souvenirs. Airfare, hotels, bus transportation, all activities, three meals per day and the cost of a college credit.
  • There is a $100 early registration discount if you sign up for the trip by May 19th
  • There is a 5% Military family discount
  • The first 10 youth who sign up for the trip will receive a $100 scholarship towards the trip cost.
  • There is also a program called FLAG, which is a financial assistance program through Worldstrides you can call and apply for.
  • Payment set up is made easy by Worldstrides, call their financial department and they will help you set up easy payments that can continue up to 6 months after returning home from the trip.  
  • It is recommended that each delegate bring approximately $125 in spending money. This money could be used for snacks, souvenirs, and tips.
  • Each delegate should bring one “locally relevant” gift item for inclusion in the STEM in Motion gift basket for our tour guide. Small items that can be brought on a plane safely without concern for breakage are ideal.

Sample Trip Itineary - included but not limited to

  • Kennedy Space Center - Learn the incredible story of NASA’s 30-year Space Shuttle Program. View the massive Atlantis shuttle from different angles and see the wear and tear from its 33 missions. Then, experience an interactive launch simulator!  Our trip will also include a tour of the Saturn V Center, where we’ll recreate an Apollo launch in the Firing Room Theater.
  • Wild Florida Conservation up Close - Explore Florida’s most unique ecosystem and gain a greater awareness of its endangered species.  We’ll take an airboat ride, enjoy a BBQ lunch, and then experience the Safari Park Drive-Thru to see over 100 native and exotic animals roaming freely. Expanding across 85 acres of untouched scenic landscapes, our wildlife and safari park presents a unique opportunity to bring you up close and personal with wild animals such as giraffes, zebra, eland antelope, scimitar oryx, American bison, mouflon sheep, and more!
  • Wonderworks - Spend the after experiencing the more than 100 interactive exhibits that explore the answers to the unexplained in this wacky, zany science museum. We’ll then enjoy a Wonderworks Outta Control Dinner Show. This is always a class favorite as students enjoy unlimited pizza as they laugh the night away watching (and maybe being a part of) the show!
  • Disney - See the innovation and STEM that goes on throughout the world of imagination!

Alexa Groff

agroff@iastate.edu

515-294-8848