This program will consist of scientific lessons, discussions, hands-on environmental investigation and experimentation, and small group activities all while backpacking through the beautiful Gila Wilderness of New Mexico. In addition to scientific content, you will participate in discussions on a range of related topics, including environmentalism, social justice, sustainability, and leadership and you will have opportunities for personal reflection, journal keeping, and art. You are encouraged to push yourself outside your comfort zone and to try new activities, while simultaneously gaining self-awareness and self-confidence.

We will often break into smaller groups for scientific investigations, reflection activities, and leadership development. Most of the day, we will be hiking and doing science activities with limited downtime. There is flexible time each day for working on independent journals, playing games, and engaging in other fun activities.

Upcoming Session

Get ready for the next Girls/Boys Explore! summer session!

Date: June 9 - 15, 2024

Who: 9th - 12th grade students from the Las Cruces, NM and El Paso, TX areas.

Cost: Absolutely FREE!

Application Deadline: April 15, 2024.

For Girls/Boys Explore! flyer and application, please e-mail Dr. Boeing at wboeing@nmsu.edu.

What To Expect

Join us to take a journey that will change your life! Our mission is to share our passion for the outdoors and natural sciences with other young women. You will come out of this program having climbed mountains (literally) with a group of motivated and positive young students. Over the week, you will develop your leadership abilities, gain outdoors skills and do hands-on science in the wilderness. Build skills and form new connections, all while exploring the beautiful landscape of New Mexico's wilderness.

Some of what you'll learn and do:

• Build teamwork and leadership skills with group activities
• Practice the scientific method in a hands-on way
• Plan and carry out your own study
• Learn how to backpack like a pro
• Learn how to purify your own water
• Make connections and form friendships with other like-minded girls
• Gain confidence in the outdoors
• Have an adventure!