The South Carolina Governor's School for Science and Mathematics

For the second year in a row, the GSSM student body kicked off the school year by tackling the challenge course at Saluda Shoals Park on Monday, August 13. All 175 students, both juniors and seniors, traveled from Hartsville to Columbia to explore entrepreneurial thinking, strategic risk-taking and diversity appreciation among team members.

The challenge course experience is a component of the school's BlueCross BlueShield Economics and Finance Institute, which was created to aid students in developing the knowledge required to be leaders in a globally competitive economy.

The student body was divided into 14 teams. Half took on the challenge course for the first part of the day, while the others participated in a classroom simulation designed to build awareness of cultural differences in organizational settings. This activity motivated students to examine the development of stereotypes and explore how barriers are created. Teams switched places midday, giving everyone a comprehensive experience.

"With an increased enrollment of nearly 50 students this year, we were excited to bring our new and returning students together for a day of teambuilding and discovery," said Dr. Emilye Mobley, VP of Student Development at GSSM. "Several new programs will be implemented this school year, which focus on leadership, character development and service. The Saluda Shoals Challenge Day serves as a wonderful opportunity to jumpstart these initiatives and to begin buliding lasting bonds between the classes." 

The GSSM student body represents juniors and seniors from 93 South Carolina high schools and 31 state school districts.

The Challenge Day is a prelude to the next Economics and Finance Institute activity, StartUpGSSM Day, which takes place August 24, and will allow students to explore the challenges and opportunities awaiting them in the knowledge economy of South Carolina.