World of Water Explorers Workshop

World of Water (WoW) Explorers is a challenging opportunity for students in grades 9 and 10 to learn about the New England Aquarium and build skills for problem-solving, leadership and environmental stewardship. Over six intensive days, participants will conduct marine-based science experiments, practice public speaking, and explore characteristics and needs of animals and exhibits of the Aquarium. Our goal is to empower teens to take action for our blue planet.

Fall 2009 Application Now Available: Download the PDF

Learn More About the Program

“WoW has been one of the best experiences of my life, and has definitely changed me in a positive way. WoW gave me the opportunity to get involved with new things at the Aquarium, and that in and of itself brings so many opportunities to do so many exciting things! Not only did WoW encourage me to learn more about the marine world, but try and become a better public speaker and learn new techniques to working with the public…WoW takes a lot of commitment, but it brings about so many interesting and exciting things that I was happy to commit to it." – Tori, WoW Class of Fall 2007

If you have interest in marine science, animal husbandry, ocean issues or teaching, and you are driven to learn more, you’ll probably love WoW! Each day is intensive and builds from the previous session, we ask applicants to be sure they can make a commitment to full participation in all sessions before deciding to apply.

Exploring and Interpreting Aquarium Exhibits

Get comfortable with the exhibits in the Aquarium, developing your expertise, and learn how to share such information with others.
Sessions are 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Fall 2009

Saturday October 17, 2009 - Getting to know the Aquarium
Saturday October 24, 2009 - Engaging your audience
Saturday October 31, 2009 - Field Trip: Explore, Research, Learn
Saturday November 7, 2009 - So you want to be a marine biologist?
Saturday November 14, 2009 - Exhibit Interpretation
Saturday November 21, 2009 - You teach us! Presentations

Spring 2010

Saturday March 27, 2010 - Getting to know the Aquarium
Saturday April 3, 2010 - How to engage your audience
Saturday April 10, 2010 - Field Trip: Explore, Research, Learn
Saturday April 17, 2010 - So you want to be a marine biologist?
Saturday April 24, 2010 - How to interpret
Saturday May 1, 2010 - Teach us: Presentations Wow 2

Tuition and Fees

Upon acceptance to WoW, tuition is $400 per participant. Snacks are provided, but participants must bring their own lunch. Lunch may also be purchased at the Aquarium Café.

How to Sign Up

Download and complete an application.
Fall WOW Application (PDF)
Spring WOW Application…not available at this time. Will be available by Feb 15, 2010

Return the application to

Camp Programs Office - WOW
New England Aquarium
Central Wharf
Boston, MA 02110

OR
Fax it to 617-973-0251, attn: Camp Programs Office - WOW

Deadline
Fall 2009 Application – Extended to October 9, 2009

Frequently Asked Questions

If I do WoW, can I become a volunteer at the New England Aquarium?

Successful completion of the WoW program does not guarantee a volunteer opportunity at the Aquarium. Please visit the volunteer website for details about volunteer opportunities.

What are the benefits of WoW?

Successful WoWers have reflected that it has been fun to participate, and they have developed skills and demonstrated their maturity and readiness to pursue new opportunities. Actual benefits will vary for each participant, but we can assure you that it will be a positive learning experience.

Is there a difference between the Fall and Spring programs?
No. They are separate programs, but follow essentially the same format.

How do I know I got in?
Applicants will be informed either by email or phone by the date mentioned in the application. If you are accepted, you will be mailed forms to fill out, sign, and return along with payment.

What do I need to bring the first day?
On the first day you should have:

Closed-toed shoes that can get wet
Layers of comfortable clothing…be ready for an active classroom
A positive attitude and a willingness to work!

Is the whole program at the Aquarium?

Most of the time will be spent in classrooms adjacent to the Aquarium, along the harbor walk around the Aquarium, or in the Aquarium itself. There is, however, one day with a planned field trip (weather dependent) to a local coastal area.