The SARP students in the atmosphere group prepare a weather balloon by filling it up with helium. NASA/Sofie BatesA dozen of the 48 undergraduate students participated in atmospheric field research. Guided by instrument scientists, university professors, and graduate students, the SARP students prepared the ozonesondes for takeoff. For many students, their time in Houston was their first foray into field research, and, like the students releasing the balloons, they were eager to continue to learn and experience hands-on science. It is designed to be a steppingstone into a career in field research or other STEM fields.