Emma Ploumitsakos, a seventh-grader from Manchester Township Middle School in New Jersey, has earned a spot in the competitive Tech Trek New Jersey Summer Academy, which aims to inspire young women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Out of hundreds of applicants, Emma is one of only 60 girls selected for the program, which is organized by the American Association of University Women (AAUW). The camp, held at Stockton University, offers a week of immersive STEM activities, including field trips and hands-on projects like visualizing big data and conducting chemistry experiments. To qualify, Emma was nominated by her math or science teacher and went through a rigorous selection process that included an essay and an interview. The Manchester Township school district praised her confidence and professionalism throughout the process. Emma’s selection marks her as the sixth student from the district to participate in this program over the last ten years, highlighting the district's commitment to fostering STEM education among young girls.