Calling all ‘GALS:’ Free summer science program for high school students offered through KBS

The Girls on Outdoor Adventure for Leadership and Science, or GALS, program is coming to the W.K. Kellogg Biological Station this summer.

GALS is a free summer science program for high school students to learn science hands-on while overnight camping and backpacking through the wilderness.

During the two-week experience, participants learn ecology, earth science, and other topics by exploring their surroundings with local scientists. The program strives to cultivate a passion for environmental science and stewardship, develop leadership abilities, enhance critical thinking skills, and promote teamwork.

A previous participant in the program said of their experience, “GALS was an experience literally like no other. I expected this program to be a camping trip that incorporated science topics, but my expectations were far exceeded.”

2025 program and application details

The Michigan GALS program will begin and end at the Kellogg Biological Station, located at 3700 East Gull Lake Drive, Hickory Corners, and will run from July 12-26.

GALS was created to increase opportunities for students who identify as female or gender-nonconforming, students of color, students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds, and other groups historically excluded from STEM fields. However, all are welcome to apply.

Applications are open now through March 2, 2025. Contact Misty Klotz with questions at klotzmis@msu.edu.