2025 STEM Explorers Academy - Summer Program: Great Swamp Trip

Written/Images by Alessandro Villarreal; Picture by Dylan Trejo

A trip to the Great Swamp on July 24th, part of Week 3 of the STEM Explorers Academy, offered students an engaging opportunity to explore nature, strengthen connections, and enjoy a day of learning and relaxation outdoors.

Although the heat and mosquitoes made the trip less than pleasant, the highlight of the day was the box of three stray cats left at the entrance and later adopted by students. This unexpected moment made for an even better opportunity for bonding, as the kittens brought students and mentors together.

The STEM Explorers Academy Summer Program, which ran from July 7 to August 7, provided students with a comprehensive introduction to college life and academic resources. Through a combination of workshops, math classes, tutor/mentor support, and exposure to various departments—including the Wellness Center and Student Affairs—the program aimed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in higher education. Mentors were actively involved from mid-July to the end of the month, helping students navigate the college experience and build connections.

Students greeted by the Great Swamp Wildlife Refuge staff

For more information about future programs, head to E210 any weekday between 8am and 5pm or email STEM Success Coaches rrgambino@pccc.edu for Mr. Russel Gambino and knvancheri@pccc.edu for Ms. Kathleen Vancheri.

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Gallery Wildlife:

From the invasive spotted lantern fly to the spotted turtle,

These animals represent the variety* found in the area.

*Birds were camera shy.

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Gallery Nature:

Colorful flowers and fungi make for nice phone wallpapers

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Gallery Stray Cats:

Twins Michi and Asteroid Destroyer along the unnamed bobtail cat.