It is a program with the mission of getting girls interested in science, technology, engineering and math.

This summer the Girlstart program has taken its mission to Killeen for the very first time.

"We believe that the Girlstart program allows girls to test science and math activities to feel that they can do it," Executive Director Tamara Hudgins said.

The free camp is open to daughters of active duty service members and veterans in grades four through eight.

"Girls here are engaging in hands on STEM (science, technology engineering and math) activities that are designed to spark their interest and to encourage them to think about STEM as a possible major or career," Hudgins said.

As part of the camp, girls are introduced to anything from veterinary sciences, video games, astronomy and medicine.

For 12-year-old Japonica, camp is a way to enjoy the summer and learn at the same time.

"It gives you more time to have fun and not always sit up on the couch and be bored," she said.

But camp has also been a place where she has discovered new interests.

"When I first came, I wasn't so interested in computers, but then I saw the great things you can do with them. I just said computers look so nice," she said.

While other participants, like 12-year-old Ladasia, said one of the activities helped her decide what she wants to be when she grows up.

"I thought about how I liked water and rain and a lot of weather, so I thought I want to be a meteorologist," she said.

Camp organizers say the program is worth it, even if it just sheds new light on different career options.

"I don't know if all of these girls will become scientists in their future, but even if it changes one life it's really meaningful," Hudgins said.

It is all for free thanks to a grant from the Texas Veterans Commission Fund for Veterans' Assistance. The fund provides grants to organizations that serve the military community and their families.

Girlstart will offer camps throughout next year, including camp during spring break and weekend minicamps in the fall and spring of 2011.

Officials estimate more than 325 girls to participate in the camps.