High School Students Accepted into Nanoscience and Nanoengineering Research Program

Wesleyan’s high school administration does a fantastic job of keeping students aware of opportunities that will help prepare them for their future.

WCA seniors, Haley Pierce and Brenda Arellano have pursued a wonderful educational opportunity this summer.  Both of these students were accepted into the Draelos Scholars Program, a research program that is being held this summer at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro’s Joint School of Nanoscience and Nanoengineering.  This program, sponsored by Drs. Michael and Zoe Draelos, friends and strong supporters of Wesleyan, is an intensive university level experience where students are given the opportunity to work in a lab with research scientists.  Haley and Brenda have been working this summer with researchers such as Dr. Hemali Rathnayake.  According to the school’s website, “The bulk of Dr. Rathnayake’s current research effort is focusing on making novel carbon-based nanomaterials for green energy applications.”  To be able to study and work under such brilliant men and women in science is a phenomenal life-changing experience.

The Draelos’ established this program so that select students from across the Triad would experience at a young age the world of research. We greatly appreciate our High School Principal, Mr. Tim Rickman, and College Counselor, Michelle Ledbetter, who work closely with organizations and individuals such as the Draelos’ to help connect them with the fine students of Wesleyan.  We are thrilled that Haley and Brenda were chosen to be a part of this dynamic and exciting program. Learning and exploring new ideas in a state-of-the-art research facility such as UNCG is an invaluable experience that will make learning even more engaging and relevant for them.