This year, each campus hosted a two-week pilot academy where about 40 students were introduced to a myriad of activities designed to help them be comfortable on college campuses long before they actually attend. Students stayed on campus during the program at CSU.

“Our faculty and community partners aim to inspire student interest in STEM by inviting them to participate in the exciting STEM activities on campus and in nearby laboratories,” said Sarah Heist, program coordinator for STEM Academy at SCC. “We are intentional about making early connections with students traditionally underrepresented in STEM and raising awareness about how one goes about preparing for higher education in STEM fields. We want to get them excited about STEM career possibilities.”

In addition to learning about student support services, students met with faculty, researchers and student researchers during visits to the many laboratories on campus, including robotics, mechanical engineering, chemistry, biology and microbiology. Guest speakers included STEM professionals from a regional crime lab as well as bioengineering, computer manufacturing and cybersecurity companies.

With close proximity to the Air Force Research Laboratory at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, the program is particularly convenient for military-connected students. This summer’s programs pulled from nine area schools. “Our goal is to get them started at SCC and then provide support to transition to the workforce or transfer to CSU. The possibilities are endless,” said Heist.