This summer, the Microbiology Outreach Foundation (MOF) returned to Thompson Rivers University’s EUReKA! Summer Camp, where we had the chance to introduce even more young learners to the world of microbiology. Throughout the summer, we reached around 170 participants, making this one of our larger outreach experiences with the program this year.
EUReKA! has always been a great place for students to explore science in a way that feels fun and hands-on. Instead of simply sitting and listening, campers were able to ask questions, take part in activities and learn by actually interacting with the ideas being introduced to them. During our sessions, we focused on helping campers understand the hidden world of microbiomes and microorganisms. We talked about the different kinds of microorganisms, where they can be found and the different roles they play in our everyday lives. For many of the campers, it was interesting to learn that bacteria are not always harmful. They are found almost everywhere, including inside our own bodies, and many of them play important roles in keeping ecosystems and living organisms functioning.
One of the most enjoyable parts of the experience was seeing how differently each group responded. With a large number of participants taking part throughout the summer, there were plenty of questions, reactions and unexpected conversations. Some campers already knew quite a bit about microbes, while others were being introduced to microbiology for the first time. Either way, their curiosity often led the sessions in interesting directions.
The summer camp environment also made the experience feel different from a regular classroom. Campers were able to learn without worrying about tests or grades. They could simply be curious, try things out and ask whatever came to mind. That made it easier for them to engage with topics that might otherwise sound complicated or intimidating. EUReKA! also gives young students the chance to interact with university students and people involved in science. Being able to speak with someone who is studying or working in a scientific field can make science feel a little more real and a little more achievable. It shows campers that scientists are not just people they read about in textbooks, but people they can actually meet, talk to and learn from.
Returning to EUReKA! in 2026 was another valuable opportunity for MOF to connect with young learners in the Kamloops community. With a fairly large and curious group of students our hope is that we were able to expand their knowledge on science and leave them with a few new questions about the microscopic world around them.
We would like to thank the EUReKA! organizers, staff, volunteers and, of course, the campers for welcoming us back again this summer. Their curiosity and enthusiasm made the experience memorable, and we look forward to seeing you again next year.