Young Women in STEM

Are you a high school girl interested in science and learning about the Great Lakes? Have you ever wondered what it’s like to sleep on a ship or work on a schooner? Are you interested in meeting other high school girls who are just as interested in science, technology, engineering, or math and as adventurous as you are? If so, the Inland Seas Young Women in STEM program is a great fit for you!

This three-day, overnight research-based program will allow you to eat, sleep, and work aboard the schooner Inland Seas while exploring the functioning and health of the Great Lakes. During the voyage, you will study and analyze fish, plankton, water, and lake sediment and develop a research project on invasive species or other topics of interest. You’ll also help the crew with vessel operation, including hoisting and handling sails, plotting and steering a course, and assisting with meals in the galley.

Join us on board the ship! We’re excited to explore the Great Lakes with you. 

Session 1 (COMPLETED)

Dates: July 1 – July 3 (two nights, three days)

Ship: Inland Seas

Starting Location: Charlevoix, MI

Ending Location: Suttons Bay, MI

Cost: $400 per person

Grade: Students entering grades 9-12 this coming fall and recent high school graduates

Capacity: Up to 9 participants

Submit your information and interest below!

Session 2 (COMPLETED)

Dates: July 27 – July 29 (two nights, three days)

Ship: Alliance

Starting Location: Sault Ste. Marie, MI

Ending Location: Hessel, MI

Cost: $400 per person

Grade: Students entering grades 9-12 this coming fall and recent high school graduates

Capacity: Up to 12 participants

Submit your information and interest below!

If you have any questions, reach out to ISEA’s Program Coordinator at lbump@schoolship.org.


What’s Included:

  • Two nights’ accommodations – ship bunks in common areas; bring a sleeping bag and pillow
  • Lunch and dinner on the first day, three meals on the second day, and breakfast and lunch on the last day
  • All gear and equipment needed for sailing and research
  • Great Lakes training and research guidance from experienced crew and instructors

Learn About Others’ Experiences

Hear from a previous participant about her experience:

Past participants have written blog posts about their time sailing with the Young Women in STEM program. Click here to read more!

A group of ten young women and two instructors smiling and posing for a group photo on the deck of a sailing schooner under a clear blue sky.

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