Allen County-Scottsville senior Olivia Baird spent five weeks over summer break learning about science and nature as a participant in the prestigious Kentucky Governor’s Scholar Program.
The Kentucky Governor’s Scholars Program (GSP) allows selected students to spend five weeks taking college-level class work at selected Kentucky colleges and universities during the summer preceding their senior year. GSP attendees participate in various college-level courses and experience college-life during their five-week stay.
Baird attended Murray State University in west Kentucky. Her five weeks included a wide range of activities, both in the classroom and the environment.
“I was in the Agribusiness and Biotechnology pathway,” Baird recounted. “We looked at the nitrogen cycle, overgrazing, went on field trips to farms, examined the medicinal properties of plants and even made hot sauce.”
Her hands-on experiences continued as part of a General Studies portion of the program.
“In my general studies class we tested water samples, did yoga, and painted under the title of ‘nurture,’” Baird explained.
As is the case in the GSP experience, participants enjoy free time. However, the break from structured learning allows students the freedom to engage in campus activities and create memories with new friends.
“I played a lot of card games, tennis, and ping pong,” Baird added. “I made a lot of amazing friends there as well.”
When asked what she will take from her time away from home, Baird says GSP gave her an insight into what college will be like once she graduates from AC-SH next spring. She also adds that GSP also helped promote personal growth.
“This experience allowed me to understand the college experience from the dorms to the classrooms,” Baird pointed out. “This experience helped me take accountability and assume responsibility.”
The GSP summer program caps over a six month process for students interested in attending. Baird began her journey late last year by completing a lengthy application process. After being selected as a candidate at the District level, her materials are reviewed by GSP officials. In early April, acceptance letters are mailed.
Any AC-SH junior interested in GSP can contact the high school guidance office for additional information.