Sixty-four eighth-grade students from Cane River Middle School recently visited Western Carolina University for a day of scientific discovery that included DNA experiments, archeological research and forensic anthropology. The “Ask a Scientist” program is designed to give the students some hands-on experience in upper-level science and to encourage them to consider careers in scientific fields. The program was made possible by a grant of $1,000 to Yancey County teacher Nelda Phillips by WCU’s School-University Teacher Education Partnership, housed in the College of Education and Allied Professions. As part of the day, Jane Eastman, assistant professor of anthropology and sociology, guided Cane River students in a study of pottery artifacts (above) while Cindy Atterholt, associate professor of chemistry, helped students identify different types of fibers using DNA analysis (below).