June 30, 1995

High school students learn about nuclear science and technology at NCSU

Two weeks ago when Gabriela Allen, a rising senior at the N. C. School of Science and Mathematics, thought about nuclear power, the positive applications and the progress of nuclear research did not come to mind. Like many people, she had heard too many horror stories of nuclear meltdowns and the devastating consequences of nuclear war to differentiate between fact and fiction.

Today, she has a more informed view. She is one of twenty-two participants in the two-week Nuclear Science and Technology program conducted by the Department of Nuclear Engineering at N. C. State University. These students, from all over the state and country, attended lectures, visited laboratories and participated in research projects conducted by nuclear engineering faculty, technical staff and graduate students.

Additionally, students gained knowledge of the department's Pulstar reactor, Scaled Pressurized Water Reactor Facility, Neutron Activation Laboratory, Plasma/Fusion Facilities and more. On one field trip, the students toured the Shearon-Harris nuclear power plant, something many of them would never have done otherwise.

Supported by CP&L, Duke Power and Virginia Power, the program ran June 18-30. The annual camp is open to rising seniors who demonstrate an aptitude for science and engineering and rising juniors who have taken advanced science and math courses.

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