The Department of Linguistics has a long-standing tradition of fostering education and innovation, demonstrated through its continued sponsorship of the University of Michigan Science Olympiad (UMSO). The U-M Science Olympiad Invitational event is organized by an on-campus student organization, drawing nearly 1,500 middle and high school students from across the nation each year.

The Department is proud to sponsor two events: Codebusters and Write It Do It. These events are part of the 23 diverse STEM challenges that Science Olympiad offers. Codebusters engages students in the fascinating world of cryptography, challenging them to decode encrypted messages, while Write It Do It tests communication skills, requiring students to convey complex information accurately and effectively in an experimental setting.

By sponsoring the UMSO Invitational, the Department of Linguistics is opening up new realms of interest for middle school and high school students, exposing them to fields of study like Linguistics that they might not typically encounter in their regular curriculum. The event provides a unique opportunity for young learners to be exposed to the research environment of the University of Michigan. Through hands-on challenges and intellectual exploration, students experience the vibrant and diverse academic culture of U-M, potentially sparking a lifelong passion for learning and scientific discovery. 

More information about the University of Michigan Science Olympiad and its enriching events can be found on their website.