Students attend summer institute

In June, Hot Springs County High School students Olivia Weyer and Akeyla Franklin attended the 33rd annual Summer High School Institute at the University of Wyoming. The two were among the 90 students selected for the program from across the state.

After it was suggested they attend the program by their school counselor, the pair set to applying. They noted as part of the process they had to write essays on topics chosen from a provided list.

The program at the University of Wyoming was June 10-30, and the girls said the first day they were shown around the campus and there were various activities. The second, they chose what classes they wanted to attend, and on the third classes began. Weyer chose classes in social inequity and astronomy, while Franklin chose engineering and agriculture. Weyer noted she has since taken up an interest in astronomy.

It isn’t just about education, however, as students were able to take trips to the movies, go rock climbing, go out to dinner and even travel to locations like Denver and Snowy Range. Weyer and Franklin noted the first couple days everyone seemed a bit nervous but as the days continued friendships developed. Weyer said it’s great because they now have friends all across the state.

Though the program has ended, the two noted the friendships they made with others from around the state have continued and they do a lot of group chats. Since students can only attend the summer after their sophomore year, Weyer and Franklin won’t be going back next year but they already plan to have a reunion with the people they met following graduation.