A Knox County Middle School student has been selected to participate in a one-week hands-on science academy at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
McKenzie Flinn, an upcoming eighth grade student, will be traveling to Oak Ridge July 15-20 to learn at one of the largest U.S. Department of Energy research facilities in the country. Her program of study will focus on the application of math and science principles in the world of work.
“I was really happy and excited that I got to go for a whole week to Tennessee with difference experiences and see all the different adventures waiting for me in July,” said Flinn.
“Science is my best subject and my favorite, so why not go when you love science?”
Flinn is one of twenty-six students from the Appalachian area that was selected to participate in the summer academy. All major expenses including travel and meals are covered for participants.
While participating in the program, students will complete hands-on research projects such as biofuels, alternative energy, climate change, global warming, robotics, and the environment. Students will also tour the research facilities and participate in field trips to nearby industries, universities, and museums.
Flinn learned about the summer academy through Tonya Allen, Gear-Up academic coach at Knox County Middle.
“I’m excited that McKenzie was selected for the academy. It will be a great learning experience for her and one that will help better prepare her for the future,” said Allen.
Although she is uncertain where she will attend college, Flinn has already made one major decision about her future.
“I’m going to be a doctor. The type of doctor I want to be is a cardiologist because my mom had heart surgery in 2008, and it made me really interested when I had the experience,” said Flinn.
“I don’t have any colleges in mind yet, but I want to go somewhere close to home.”
Flinn will be recognized by the Knox County Board of Education in August.