SHEPHERDSTOWN, WV - Some 9th grade students in West Virginia got a taste of what university science is all about.

The Health Science and Technology Academy reaches out to 9th through 12th graders in West Virginia to encourage students who might not ordinarily choose college or science-based careers.

This is the first HSTA Fun with Science Academy for ninth graders held at Shepherd University and more than 60 students are attending.

Dr. Jason Best, a professor of astrophysics, said, "As the diversity of science increases the diversity of scientists must also increase at Shepherd University. The HSTA Fun with Science Academy is welcoming students from all over West Virginia from all walks of life into the wonderful world of scientific exploration."

On Friday students will be presenting their findings from the academy to the Dean of Shepherd University and other academics.