About

  • Registration is $30 for students and free for up to two parents and guardians. 
  • A reduced fee is available for students with financial need. Email Angela Nocera to request a reduced fee.
  • Payment is accepted online only via credit card and PayPal.  Registrations cancelled after Nov 8th cannot be refunded.

Check the University of South Alabama website for the latest updates on COVID information on campus. If you are experiencing any symptoms of illness, do not come to the event.

Half Day Workshop for Middle Schoolers

GEMS is a fun and exciting way for students in grades 5-8 to explore careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Students pick their favorite subjects, and then get their hands dirty in workshops designed to showcase how much fun it is to work in associated fields. Workshops are conducted by professors and local professionals and examples from previous years include making jewelry with DNA, conducting forensic investigations, hunting for gems and minerals, designing web pages…and many more!

The half-day workshop begins at 8:30am and concludes at 1:30pm. Students will visit a variety of locations on the University of South Alabama campus. Participants will leave with a goodie-bag, a t-shirt, new friends, and big dreams for their futures!

2024 Schedule (click for PDF)

  • 07:45am Check-in
  • 08:30am Opening Session
  • 09:40-12:50 Students attend three fun workshops of their choice!  Parents attend sessions from Mobile County Public Schools, Alabama School of Math & Science, USA College of Medicine, Society of American Military Engineers, Bishop State, and Pond & Company!
  • 01:00-1:30 Lunch & Pickup

GEMS Sessions for Parents and Guardians

What is STEM?  Why is it important for my middle schooler?

While students are enjoying their workshops, parents and guardians are invited to sessions that discuss STEM and other topics including extracurricular programs, tips for selecting classes, and how to start planning for college admissions and scholarships. These sessions will provide parents and guardians with resources and tools to inspire and support your child’s journey towards higher education.

These sessions are FREE for parents/guardians of students registered for GEMS.

2024 Parent Session Lineup 

  • Alabama School of Math & Science
  • Mobile County Career Academies
  • USA College of Medicine S.T.A.R.S and S.T.R.I.P.E.S program
  • USA Dual Enrollment Program
  • Tetra Tech
  • Pond and Company
  • Bishop State
  • SAME Engineering & Contruction Camps/Scholarships
  • Math Circle