On April 19 and 20, the College of Science at the University of Idaho hosted Vandal Science Days, a two-day event that showcased the diverse opportunities available within the college. The event was open to students, faculty, and visitors and offered participants the chance to learn about various science programs and projects directly from professors and students involved in research.
The highlight of Vandal Science Days was a fossil dig, where participants had the opportunity to unearth fossils buried in sand pits. Additionally, there were free plants available for visitors to take home, as well as experiments that demonstrated scientific principles in action. A raffle was also held where participants could win prizes by completing various activities.
To further engage with visitors, booths representing different departments and clubs within the College of Science were set up. High school students attending the Jazz Festival were encouraged to explore dual credit opportunities and take classes at the University of Idaho. Various booths highlighted research projects and studies conducted by graduate students, allowing visitors to learn about topics such as arsenic practices and virtual realities for sustainable futures.
The event concluded with a presentation on “Gravitational Waves: Jazz from the Cosmos” by Professor Zach Etienne. Vandal Science Days successfully intertwined science with entertainment from the Jazz Fest, attracting a diverse audience. The College of Science plans to host more events like Vandal Science Days in the future to continue promoting its programs and engaging with the community.
