On November 9^th, CAPS and ABRC hosted 25 seventh grade scholars from the Columbus City Preparatory School for Boys. The Breakfast of Science Champions program was a two and a half hour event, during which students enjoyed breakfast and a morning filled with exciting science learning. This is an annual event across campus, with 14 different host sites participating in 2016. The event provides students with the opportunity to visit the University, engage in hands on STEM activities, learn about career opportunities, and meet faculty, graduate students and staff.

During breakfast, students heard from current graduate students at The Ohio State University. Two PhD students shared about what got them interested in science, and discussed their research and career aspirations. Following breakfast, the students took a tour of the CAPS and ABRC laboratories and growth facilities. They participated in activities and experiments in the greenhouse while learning about plant needs, nitrogen fixation, the symbiotic relationship between soybean plants and the beneficial bacteria Rhizobium. 

The students made observations and collected data on soybean plants treated with Rhizobium that were grown under different conditions. Half of the plants were grown in soil with supplemental fertilizer, while the other half were given no fertilizer. Students measured the height, counted the leaves, and compared the overall appearance of the plants. They then harvested the plants, and cleaned the roots in order to observe the presence of Rhizobium nodules on the roots. At the end of the activity, students were able to take a soybean plant home.

The Breakfast of Science Champions is an exciting event for both the students who attend and the CAPS and ABRC staff. We thank the students for their participation and look forward to serving as a host site in future years.