Hermens pointed out that students learn a great deal from visiting with and asking questions of the exhibitors and their cutting-edge instruments both in operation and in theory. Tutoring, dances, magic shows to elementary schools and allocations from the EOU Student Government made up the majority of the funds for the trip. In addition to raising funds for the trip, students also perform public service projects throughout the La Grande community. They ve assisted with Girl and Boy Scout science badges, aided in the analysis of the city water supply and performed National Chemistry Week activities. Because of our remote location, we must use our imagination to find opportunities for outreach activities.
Travel time is significant when opportunities arise out of the local town.
For this reason we must ferret out other opportunities. Visiting students in elementary schools is an opportunity that is always available. Elementary students have few chances to see visitors in school assemblies, and they make very good audiences. A chemical magic show is always a hit, said Hermens. Hermens, an avid photographer, hopes to continue on with his campus role of photographing EOU sports teams and individual athletes.