Rocket science and computer science have always sparked the interest of Dana Bomgaars, a high school student from Colorado.
"I'm in the WISE program at my school and that's for Women in Science and Engineering. I've always been science-oriented," Bomgaars said.
She, along with more than 30 other students, is participating in a weeklong camp known as the Renaissance Scholar Program at Baylor University.
"The idea is to give high performing students the opportunity to experience both science, mathematics, and great text as part of exposure to a well rounded education," Baylor Professor Richard Campbell said.
The program is also helping these students who already have an interest in science stay interested.
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Science Scholars
As News 8's Bonnie Gonzalez shows us why schools like Baylor University have programs to try and attract young minds to the scientific world.
 
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"I didn't know what I wanted to major in so I thought it would be very helpful for me to come here," Houston student Matthew Gargani said.
If students remain interested, it could ease what some have called a shortage of scientists.
"There's a great shortage of scientists and engineers in our country and we need to encourage more children to be involved in science and mathematics and encourage that," Campbell said.
Campbell said that encouragement needs to start at a younger age, around the middle-school level.
"I don't see enough encouragement at that level, at that age when they're most formative," Campbell said.
At least, at this level, the countdown for a scientific career seems well underway.
This is the third year Baylor University has held the Renaissance Scholar Program. Many of the students who participate return to campus for their college education.
