Merci Ujenezza Photo Credit: Lori DesVergnes

Bay View Academy sophomore and Providence, RI resident, Merci Ujenezza, will spend this spring semester in Freeport, Maine, fully immersed in a competitive science and leadership program called Coastal Studies for Girls (CSG). CSG’s cutting edge program is designed to prepare students to be leaders in the study of marine and environmental science.

Merci was one of only 15 students selected to attend CSG, out of hundreds of applicants. In addition she is one of only 3 girls who received the coveted full-scholarship to participate in this program; an award worth $18,500.00.

At CSG, Merci will be joined by other sophomores from across the country as she engages in scientific inquiry, leadership development, critical thinking and stewardship, all while completing her Bay View Academy academic requirements. Merci’s classes will include Coastal Marine Ecosystems, Leadership Adventure, World History, English, a Math elective and a World Language elective. Merci will participate in rigorous hands-on curriculum while interacting directly with scholars and leaders in the STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) fields.

According to www.coastalstudiesforgirls.org: “As the only residential semester science school in the country that offers a single-gender setting, CSG promotes girls’ aspirations in the sciences—a field in which research tells us that girls will excel if they are given consistent and purposeful encouragement. CSG’s strong sense of community and dedicated faculty are crucial components in nurturing students’ intellectual curiosity, confidence, leadership and self-determination.”

Merci’s 16-week, CSG adventure will begin on Friday, February 8^th, when she departs for Freeport, Maine.