Learning and doing

Having a university in Cape Girardeau offers many programs and activities of interest to the public, but some are better known than others. One program at Southeast Missouri State University that deserves to be in the spotlight is the Center for Environmental Analysis. The center, under the direction of Dr. John Kraemer, gives students opportunities to "participate in real-world activities."

The center's projects include groundwater and surface-water testing, improving pediatric asthma care, detecting methamphetamine exposure, mold studies and locating graves using ground-penetrating radar.

The center is self-supporting, generating about $100,000 each year.

The 15 to 20 students who are involved with the center have a great opportunity to learn while doing — something that will appeal to future employers.