Social media spotlight: Abby Elkins

Hometown: Hampden, Maine

Abby Elkins is a third-year elementary education student interning with EPSCoR this summer.

“I’ve always loved going to school and had a passion for learning. My teachers always inspired me, and I wanted to be able to give back and teach future generations. I love helping others and teaching new things. This summer, I am working with EPSCoR to develop and test middle school and high school science toolkits about sustainability and aquaculture. We have activities designed to help students learn about the tragedy of the commons, DNA, natural selection, ocean acidification, pollution and so much more in a fun way. My favorite moments are when I get to go to surrounding communities or attend campus events and teach youth about how cool science can be! Outside the classroom, I teach dance, where I combine my love for dancing and for teaching. I’m also in marching band and pep band, which is a really fun way to be involved on campus and to show my love for the UMaine community. My favorite part about UMaine is the diversity, opportunities and community! There’s so much to do and so many activities to choose from. There’s something for everyone.”

See posts featuring Elkins on UMaine’s Facebook and Instagram pages.

About EPSCoR:
EPSCoR stands for the Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research, a federal program directed at states that have historically received smaller portions of federal research and development funding. EPSCoR develops partnerships between higher education institutions, industry, government, and others to effect lasting improvements in research capacity, innovation, and economic development. For more information, visit umaine.edu/epscor.