Netpals bring science to middle school students in Cambridge, USA

For many scientists, it was a teacher, parent, sibling or family friend who gave them the first inspiration that led them to a career in science.  Although Cambridge, Massachusetts in the USA is arguably one of the world’s leading scientific research centers, many students in the Cambridge  public schools do not receive the opportunity to expand their scientific horizons; they are unaware that the biology and chemistry they are studying in school today, could lead to a career in their own backyard tomorrow. Exposing kids to the wonders of science and affording them the chance to see what goes on inside the research buildings in their neighborhoods is the driving force behind the Novartis Netpals program.
 
What are Netpals?
Netpals is a collaboration with Novartis scientists and middle school students in the Cambridge public schools who are matched up for one-on-one mentoring. Netpals meet face to face at least three times during the four month long program and correspond regularly via email. 

The scientists and students collaborate on a variety of writing and science related assignments, culminating in a science fair at their school.  During the program the scientists share information about their education and career path with the students.  The students benefit a great deal from the one-on-one attention from an adult who loves science and who is willing to share  insights and experiences from their educational and career path.  The Novartis scientists take great pride in the role they are playing to develop the next generation of research scientists.

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