On the first Friday of GHP, science majors were informed that they would partake in their first competition. The students were split up into groups of 5 - two bio majors, two chem majors, and one physics major per group. They were then given limited resources (such as two pieces of paper, five straws, one meter of tape, etc.) to create a device that would last the longest in the air after being dropped from Bailey's second floor. The device which lasted the longest was declared the winner, and makeshift trophies (designed by the student judges) were given to the winners.
Week 2 - Egg Drop
For the second week, there was a good, old-fashioned egg drop in the science department. Students were divided into groups using the same method as week 1, and they were given limited resources once more. They were then to drop the egg from the second or third story of Bailey. There was only one group whose egg did not break, and they were disqualified. Everyone was a winner! Or at least, that's what science majors tell themselves to make themselves feel better.
The Marble Roll was perhaps the most frustrating of the competitions. This time, the students were allowed to pick their groups of three. They were given an unlimited supply of straws and pins, and one foam board. THe groups then constructed a maze using these supplies which was to be propped against the markerboard. The key was to not only keep the marble from falling (thus disqualifying your group), but to keep the marble in motion for 60 seconds. It was a close competition, but a successful one!
Week 4 - Rubber-Band Powered Car
The grouping for this competition was a little different. Instead of going for variety, the judges decided to see how like-minded people would fare in competition. Most of the groups consisted of five people within the same area of science (eg. five chemistry majors). The results? Physics clearly had a bit of an upper hand (Because physics rules, of course). There were many interesting designs constructed of paper, rubber bands, straws, and foam board.
Week 5 - Preparation for Science Spectacular
Because the science majors were so busy getting ready for the "Science Spectacular", they didn't have a competition on week 5. Boo!
Week 6 - Scavenger Hunt
What better way to wind down after the Science Spectacular than to have a big scavenger hunt? This time, the competition was between classes (5 classes total). The students in each class had to make 5 clues for the other science majors. Thus, each class had 20 clues for their scavenger hunt. The science majors went through great lengths to ensure that their clues weren't going to be too easy or obvious! The competition was tough and heated.
The Science Spectacular took place on Wednesday, July 19. It was the culminating event for science majors, in which they presented their research project to fellow GHPers. There were a wide variety of topics covered - from 'the perfect painkiller', to 'robotic ping-pong', to 'face recognition and gender studies'. It was the time to shine for science majors - Bailey was filled with triboards, computers, tv screens, and real-time demonstrations.
For photos of the Science spectacular, please refer to the photo gallery.