frequently asked questions:

What is the Adventure Lab/how are they involved in Nova?
The Adventure Lab is Lake Erie Council’s newest program space, providing innovative experiences to Scouts, students and schools. Based out of the Lake Erie Council Unit Service Center in downtown Cleveland, the Adventure Lab offers fun hands-on learning opportunities for young people, adult volunteers, and families looking for engaging instruction and advancement opportunities.
The Adventure Lab is the launchpad for the Nova Program at Lake Erie Council. All Nova programs, awards, applications, etc go through the Adventure Lab.
 
Is this a nationally recognized program?
While the Nova and Supernova programs used to be organized by National, they have released the program to be council driven. This means that our program is guided by the Lake Erie Council and while it follows what the program by National was, some things such as requirements and applications have been changed to better serve our council.

Can I get participate in your Nova activities if I am not a part of Lake Erie Council?
Yes! While your council might require alternative steps, you can participate in our Nova activities and we will find where they can be aligned with your council's Nova structure.

What all can I earn through completing Nova and Supernova?
In Nova, you can gain a patch, as well as up to 4 pi pins, one representing each area of STEM.
In Supernova, you can gain three medals- the Dr Bernard Harris Bronze Medal, the Thomas Alva Edison Silver Medal, and the Albert Einstein Gold Medal.

Does it cost anything to start Nova?
Nope! Nova has no starting cost. There are some programs that the Adventure Lab will offer that can help you on your Nova/Supernova journey, but none of them are required to complete the program. Nova awards beyond the base patch can be purchased by the Scouts but are also not required.

Do I need a mentor to complete a Supernova award?
Yes. Supernova awards specifically required you to have an approved mentor to provide feedback, discussion, assistance, and assessment of content. Mentors will guide you through multiple requirements of your Supernova award. They must an approved mentor on the Lake Erie Council Supernova Mentor List, not another council. If you are looking for a mentor, please go to the Request Mentor page to request a mentor.

What is the difference between a counselor and a mentor?
In Nova, counselors are only needed for one activity and the time commitment and subject matter is limited. Mentors are specific to the Supernova award, and Scouts must complete the entire award with the same mentor (they can change mentors each award if they prefer). Since Supernova Awards can take longer periods to complete, Mentor's are expected to provide continued support throughout that time. These awards typically cover a variety of subjects that the mentor is expected to be familiar with.

How do I become a counselor/mentor?
Fill out this form (linked to form) to apply to be a Nova Counselor and/or a Supernova Mentor! Experience (personal or professional) in a STEM field is required. Applications cost $25. A second application fee is waived if you apply for both counselor and mentor at the same time ($25 total).

Why should I do the Nova Program?
The Nova Program is perfect for those looking to pursue a career in STEM or those who are highly interested in exploring more STEM topics. Achieving Nova and Supernova awards is an excellent accomplishment to make you stand out on your resume. The Supernova awards require working with a mentor, practice of experiments and the Scientific Theory, and refining research and presentation skills, all of which are required and highly sought after in a STEM field.