Bryce Parrish, an upcoming ninth grader at Bulloch Academy, recently completed the prestigious US Naval Academy (USNA) STEM Program. Out of over 5,000 applicants, only 330 students per grade were chosen, making Parrish's participation a significant achievement.
This program, held in Annapolis from June 3-8, 2024, serves as a catalyst for a future in science and engineering. It allows students to create, build, and explore STEM subjects in world-class lab facilities alongside the USNA’s distinguished faculty and midshipmen, as well as other talented students from across the country.
Parrish also demonstrated his dedication to athletics by participating in the Navy Prospect Football Camp at the Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium on June 21. His commitment to both academics and athletics highlights his well-rounded character and drive for excellence.
His ultimate goal is to seek acceptance into the US Naval Academy and become a military officer. His experience at the Summer STEM program has only solidified this ambition.
Bryce’s Account of the USNA Summer STEM Program
“My experience at USNA Summer STEM was unique and certainly worthwhile,” he shared.
Upon arriving at the airport, midshipmen from the Naval Academy escorted Parrish and other students to the USO office. They were then transported to Annapolis on one of Navy's charter buses.
Upon arrival, each student received a bag containing shirts for the week, an extra sweatshirt, and a name tag. These tags indicated their name, room, company, platoon, and six-person squad. Parrish was assigned to 2nd Squad, 2nd Platoon, 2nd Company.
“The best squad,” he mentioned.
He noted the privilege of being in this group and how well they got to know the midshipmen assigned to each squad. Parrish and his fellow students stayed at Bancroft Hall, where all of the Naval Academy's midshipmen live. While most rooms housed three students, he was fortunate to be assigned to a unique six-man room.
The camp also provided a behind-the-scenes look at day-to-day life at the Naval Academy. From breakfast in the morning to "lights out" at 22:00, their days were structured and meticulously planned.
Throughout the week, the students participated in numerous academic modules, including taking apart a lawn mower engine, flying miniature helicopters onto model aircraft carriers, and programming an RC car to drive by itself. Parrish's favorite activity was learning how to use a soldering iron to create a working red light bulb.
A highlight of the program was a trip to Washington, D.C., where the squads toured the Natural History Museum, American History Museum, Washington Monument, and the WWII Memorial. Besides academics, they had intramural athletic periods and squad time, during which they discussed life at the academy and the application process.
Parrish mentioned forming strong bonds with many fellow students who shared similar humor, goals, and mindsets. He stated, “The bond that we created made me feel as if I had known them for way longer than a week, possibly even years. I have also remained in touch with many people since the camp ended.”
Parrish highly recommends the Naval Academy's Summer STEM program to other individuals his age who share a strong interest in STEM and a passion for serving their country.
Bryce Parrish's journey is just beginning, and his time at the USNA Summer STEM program has provided him with invaluable experiences and inspiration. His passion for STEM and service to his country will undoubtedly lead him to achieve great things in the future.
