STRONG – Steven Swatling Jr. of Strong was one of two delegates selected to represent Maine at the National Youth Science Camp from June 26 to July 21.

Swatling and 94 other high school graduates from across the country participate in the four-week program, now in its 40th year. The camp is located in the Monongahela National Forest in West Virginia, and merges aspects of science, outdoors, arts and music into a complete experience.

Swatling said, “I enjoyed the opportunity to be part of such a distinguished group of young Americans. The atmosphere at camp should be brought to places in the world of struggle to enhance life for all.”

Swatling, a 2003 graduate of Mount Abram Regional High School in Salem, is planning to study engineering at Clarkson University in Potsdam, N.Y., this fall.

Scientists from all disciplines travel to the camp to offer lectures and direct studies. Examples of this year’s lecture topics include: biometrics, breast cancer, nanobiotechnology, fuel cells and forensics. The studies provide “hands-on” experience.

Delegates also explore the surroundings offered through the outdoor program of hiking, carving, mountain biking and rock climbing. They choose from an array of afternoon seminars that range from ultimate Frisbee to cello to swing dancing to discussions on philosophy, science, religion and culture.

Unlike other summer academic programs, contributions to the National Youth Science Foundation make it possible for all delegates to attend free.