Your Future In STEM 2024

INSIDE:

SUMMER PROGRAM LISTINGS

PUBLISHER

Marie Schwartz, mschwartz@teenlife.com

EDITOR

Emily Rohozen, emily@teenlife.com

Nancy Li, nancy@teenlife.com

ADVERTISING SALES

Brenda Boos, brenda@teenlife.com

Jen Fisher, jen@teenlife.com

Regan Beiermann, regan@teenlife.com

To download a PDF of this guide, go to: www.teenlife.com/ your-future-in-stem

FUTURE IN STEM

o you have an interest or passion in technology, mathematics, engineering or science? Do you ever wonder how you can transform that passion into a career that interests you? With much thought and research, we have prepared a guide to help you find your perfect path of STEM.

This guide can give you that push into a STEM career — even if you don’t think of yourself as a STEM student. Human-centered design, roller-coaster engineer, volcanologist, believe it or not, these are possible careers for you! Do you wonder how to prepare for STEM while in high school? This guide is here to help you with that, too!

Be sure to check out the summer programs listed in this guide and contact them for more information. They can introduce you to potential STEM careers without the pressure of grades and exams. Who knows — a couple of weeks learning with other students could be just what you need to discover a future in STEM! There are millions of employers out there who hope that you will make the decision to major in subjects that can help to transform the world for the better.

UNITED STATES NAVAL ACADEMY SUMMER STEM

Are you ready to embark on an extraordinary journey into the world of STEM?

If your answer is yes, we encourage you to apply for the US Naval Academy Summer STEM camp. If accepted, you’ll spend a week at the world-class facilities of the USNA, engage in hands-on activities and ignite your passion for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math.

At Summer STEM, you will:

• Immerse yourself in cutting-edge STEM fields, including robotics, coding, aerospace engineering, and more.

• Collaborate with renowned instructors and Midshipmen.

• Explore real-world applications through hands-on experiments, projects, and interactive sessions.

• Connect with like-minded peers from around the country and form friendships that may last a lifetime.

Visit our website to learn more about Summer STEM and how to join this transformative experience.

Program Fee: $700

Needs-based scholarships available.

Apply by April 15

YOUR FUTURE STARTS HERE

Immersive programs providing students with foundations in STEM research, 21st-century skills & global stewardship.

ACADEMIC CONNECTIONS

Embark on a transformative summer journey at UC San Diego with Academic Connections! High schoolers can explore the offerings of this globally renowned university through online or residential courses, delving into engineering, sciences, arts, and more. Our active learning approach ensures practical application of knowledge, providing a unique and enriching pre-college experience.

FUTURES

Futures programs allows you to fulfill your passions, explore new interests and gain hands-on experience before entering the workforce or applying for college. The cutting-edge coursework is taught by leading industry experts in high-demand fields. Shape your future today in the areas of business, design, programming, and technology.

EVERYONE IS WELCOME IN STEM

here’s no doubt that careers in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) are exciting opportunities for individuals to make scalable, tangible and positive impacts in daily life around the world. From medicine to infrastructure, from space to sea, the sectors in which STEM graduates can dream big and affect change are limitless.

In order for these advancements to be the best they can be — to truly benefit everyone and forge a safer, more dynamic and inclusive future — the involvement and contributions of women and minority groups are critical. Unfortunately, this demographic is grossly underrepresented in college STEM programs and, subsequently, in the field.

For example, according to research by the American Association of University Women, girls and women are systematically tracked away from science and math throughout their education, limiting their access, preparation and opportunities to go into these fields as adults. As a result, women comprise only 34% of the STEM workforce.

The good news is that progress is being made. In 2023, the National Science Foundation published a comprehensive report about diversity in STEM, which found that the share of women and underrepresented minorities in the STEM workforce increased — and at a faster rate than men’s — between 2011 and 2021. Collectively, underrepresented minorities — Hispanics, Blacks and American Indians or Alaska Natives — represented nearly a quarter (24%) of the STEM workforce in 2021, up from 18% in 2011.

The following organizations, opportunities and people are helping to fuel this positive trend.

STEM PROGRAMS, SCHOLARSHIPS FOR GIRLS AND MINORITY YOUTH

Several initiatives, advocacy organizations and institutions are combating the myth of the “math brain” — research shows no innate cognitive biological differences between men and women in math — and the fact that many girls lose confidence in math by the third grade.

“I think some girls do not consider STEM because they find it intimidating,” said Dylann Volz, a college student who participated in Cornell Engineering’s CURIE Academy, a oneweek summer residential STEM program for high-school girls.

“It was definitely exciting to participate in a program with such passionate and bright young women,” she recalled. “STEM is a place for all and should not be defined by gender or any other social construct. I would recommend all girls trying something like the CURIE Academy because you never know what might excite you, get your gears turning or help you find a passion you never knew you had. Placing yourself somewhere to learn about new things will push the envelope of what you thought you could accomplish.”

Some other programs to consider include:

• Black Girls Code

• Carnegie Science Center’s Tour Your Future

• STEM Like a Girl

• STEM Explorers for Latinas

SCHOLARSHIPS & INTERNSHIPS

• Out to Innovate™ Scholarships are intended for LGBTQ+ undergraduate and graduate students pursuing degrees in STEM programs.

• The Society of Women Engineers has a number of scholarships available to women studying engineering or a related topic at any level of college.

• Entry Point! recruits students with apparent and nonapparent disabilities who are majoring in science, engineering, mathematics, and computer science for 10-week summer internships.

• The Development Fund for Black Students in Science and Technology is an endowment fund which provides scholarships to African American undergraduate students who enroll in scientific or technical fields of study at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).

• IO Scholarships offers free STEM scholarship information and educational resources for Hispanic Americans, African Americans, American Indians/Alaska Natives and Asian American Pacific Islander students.

INSPIRING ROLE MODELS

To encourage women and minorities to pursue careers in STEM, it helps for them to see people like them being celebrated and succeeding in those fields — even leveraging their positions and talents to improve the quality of life for minorities, both now and for the future. Countless innovators are trailblazing in this

arena, at every level, including:

• Akilah Darden, founder and president of The Darden Group, LLC, with a B.S. in architectural engineering and an MBA from Marymount University. She paid it forward when she authored “My Mom is a Construction Manager,” which aims to inspire youth to pursue their dreams, no matter the obstacles.

• Whitney Jardine, a corporate welding engineer, is gearing up to be the first female in her company’s tooling engineering department. In 2017, she was the sole recipient of Canada’s national Hugh A. Krentz Student Award, rewarding exemplary academic excellence, a demonstrated passion for welding and career interest in the welding industry.

• Martine Rothblatt, the “Trans-Everything CEO,” is the founder and chairwoman of the board of United Therapeutics and the top-earning CEO of the biopharmaceutical industry. She was also the creator of SiriusXM Satellite Radio and the CEO of GeoStar. She is known for her advocacy of transhumanism and the potential for technological immortality.

• Shanteka Glover, senior IT technical and business analyst at Savannah River Nuclear Solutions, LLC, is a co-founder of the Savannah River Site Women in Nuclear (SRS-WIN) chapter in Aiken, South Carolina. The chapter has grown from less than 20 members to more than 500.

• Amanda Ayles is the product manager for HCSS HeavyBid and a 2022 Pathfinder Award recipient. She’s made a point to increase diversity in product feedback sessions by making sure the women who are affected by new software have had a chance to speak before anyone can say the conversation is over.

EMPOWERING EMPLOYERS

With society’s calls for more diversity, equity and inclusions in the workplace, many employers are responding — through their policies, recruitment and retention practices, community involvement and internships. One shining example is FOXXSTEM, a D.C.-based engineering consultant that plans, develops and builds sustainable infrastructure.

In her first summer at Howard University, Rhea Douglas, a civil engineering major from Jamaica, struggled to source internships that worked with international students, especially ones without experience. Her professors recommended she reach out to Keith Foxx, FOXXSTEM founder. He offered her an intensive 40-hour-per-week internship.

“We know that if we put Rhea in positions to succeed, we can accelerate and multiply her success,” said Foxx. “Our clients are diverse and our workforce should reflect that same diversity,” he continued.

AI IS TRANSFORMING STEM STUDIES: Here’s What to Know

I is rapidly transforming the way we use and interact with technology — including in the classroom. Students entering STEM studies today can find themselves in a new landscape where AI increasingly affects both how educators teach and how students learn. As AI continues to develop, it is set to become a key technological feature of many STEM jobs of the future. While AI promises incredible opportunities to develop STEM education and work for the better, its precipitous rise and ongoing evolution also presents new challenges and ethical considerations.

WHAT IS AI?

You probably hear about AI everywhere you turn. In fact, we live with AI all around us in tools we use every day, from Apple’s Siri and Amazon’s Alexa to more recently, Chat GPT. But what exactly is AI? In short, AI can be defined as computer-simulated human intelligence used to perform human-like tasks. As a budding STEM student, you may well already be familiar with and excited about the profound impacts of natural language processing, speech recognition, machine vision and more.

HOW CAN AI IMPROVE STEM EDUCATION?

The AI tools we have at our disposal enable us to automate routine and even complicated tasks, including optimizing aspects of teaching and learning. The potential benefits of AI for STEM studies are profound. New AI-driven adaptive learning platforms are already making a splash by organizing and personalizing educational materials to meet individual student needs. This can, among other things, enhance accessibility for students with specific challenges or learning considerations. At the same time, AI is enabling educators to make sense of student learning data on a new scale in order to identify patterns in student performance and develop insight-driven strategies for instruction.

New AI technologies are also making learning more fun and accessible for STEM students. Virtual reality applications can provide immersive experiences that help elaborate complex concepts in an engaging way. AI chatbots and virtual assistants provide students with immediate support, tutoring and feedback, and promote independent learning. New AI tools also support rich collaborative learning experiences among students even outside of the traditional classroom. When it comes to

experimental projects, AI can also enable virtual simulations and laboratories, thereby expanding and enriching the traditional realm of scientific experimentation.

Perhaps the greatest promise of AI in STEM studies today is that it offers future STEM leaders the chance to experiment creatively with an emerging and quickly changing technology. This includes the opportunity to reflect about and shape our collective understanding of the benefits, but also the limitations and potential pitfalls, of AI in STEM education and in STEM fields more broadly.

CONCERNS ABOUT AI IN STEM AND BEYOND

While there is little doubt that AI can benefit both students and educators in a multitude of ways, adopting AI in all of its complex forms does not come without some potential concerns. Rather than a straightforward “Yes, let’s use AI,” or “ No, let’s keep AI out of the classroom,” STEM students and professionals need to consider important questions about how AI systems are designed and used, whether in the classroom or beyond.

A major consideration surrounding the use of AI tools in education is about potential bias. AI tools may manifest as super-human machines, but they are still built by humans — humans who are susceptible to perpetuating existing inequalities and stereotypes. Leaders in AI and education have urged educators and their institutions to ensure that AI systems are built and applied with transparency and inclusivity.

Another set of concerns surrounding the use of AI in the classroom is ethical in nature. Administrators and instructors are already confronting the issue of how to verify the authenticity of student work — and this is likely to continue to be a major challenge. What happens when students use forbidden AI tools to complete assignments? How can instructors and institutions ensure academic integrity when AI is involved?

These questions have no simple answers, but instead point to the exciting frontier of AI for those studying and pursuing careers in STEM fields. Whether weighing up the benefits and drawbacks of AI in the classroom leaves you stoked or skittish, to excel as a STEM student, you’ll need to continue to think deeply about AI in the years to come.

• 1, 2, 3, 4 and 6-week programs

• Credit and Noncredit courses

• Explore potential careers and college majors

• Build a resume and/or portfolio

• Make new friends from around the world

• Stand out to college admissions

EXPLORE YOUR INTERESTS WITH 100+ COLLEGE COURSES

• Aerospace and Renewable Energy Engineering

• Artificial Intelligence Application Development

• Coding: Learn to Code

• Computer Animation & Game Development

• Cybersecurity

• Electrical Engineering

• Environment and Society

• Forensic Science

• It Girls: Empowering Women in Technology

• And more!

APPLICATIONS ARE OPEN! (DISCOUNTS AND FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE)

HOW TO PREPARE FOR A STEM MAJOR IN HIGH SCHOOL

etting ready for college can all at once be exciting and overwhelming, even for those who are passionate about a certain area of study. If you love science, technology, engineering or math (STEM), there are plenty of ways you can start preparing now for a rewarding college experience, and ultimately career, in the field of STEM.

“High school is a great time to explore different courses to find out what you may be interested in,” said Dr. Jennifer Albert, associate professor in the Zucker Family School of Education and director of the STEM Center of Excellence at The Citadel, a renowned military college in Charleston, South Carolina. “It is important to take as many mathematics classes as possible. Math can be a key factor to student success in STEM. Computer science is another area that will help students learn problem-solving and critical-thinking skills that will help them be successful.”

Classes in computer programming, chemistry, architecture, medical research and engineering are all great opportunities to learn more about STEM pathways. Dawn Boren, information-technology senior partner management specialist for The Boeing Company, encourages students to look for STEM aspects of the subjects they’re already interested in.

“Almost every subject has STEM influences,” she said, “and many high schools now provide trade courses to help students gain trade experience. For instance, culinary professionals use mathematics while measuring, and science to make sure that ingredients mixed will result in a successful product or recipe. The automotive sector is another STEM field since it is heavily saturated with systems engineering, artificial intelligence and technology.”

Outside of the classroom, extracurricular activities, like robotics, Science Olympiad, gaming and coding, as well

as volunteer opportunities in settings like a hospital, can further sharpen STEM skills in preparation for college. “Figure out what problem you want to solve, and the skills you may need to solve it,” said Albert. “Try on as many different ‘careers’ as you can so that you have a better idea of where you want to focus your energy.”

While computer science and engineering remain popular STEM career choices, information-technology management, information security, software development, medical careers and more are exciting specializations in need of future leaders. “STEM is very fast paced. If you want to influence the world by innovation and free thinking, then STEM is for you,” said Boren.

Finding opportunities to work together with diverse groups of students toward a common goal can help build important skills that can pay off in the long run when it comes to pursuing a major in STEM. “STEM careers are important to solving the global challenges facing the world,” said Albert. “More important to these global challenges is a diverse population with diverse ways of thinking in STEM careers. Global challenges cannot be solved by the same old way of thinking. We need diverse teams of individuals working together.”

Preparing for a STEM major is one important step toward making a big difference in the world in the future. “STEM careers change the world,” said Boren. “Without them, there would be no doctors, cars, social media or electricity. Even the latest pair of Jordans or the new trend of Stanley cups would be nonexistent without STEM. We all have a duty to better the world so it will be better for generations behind us, so, let’s do that through STEM!”

STEM SUMMER PROGRAMS

ACADIA INSTITUTE OF OCEANOGRAPHY | View Website

$3,200

7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th & 12th

In-Person

2 Weeks

The Acadia Institute of Oceanography provides hands-on experiences, field trips and classroom instruction, allowing participants to explore various marine ecosystems and learn about marine life, environmental conservation and oceanographic research. The programs include activities, such as collecting and studying marine specimens, conducting experiments and exploring coastal habitats, and aims to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the marine environment while encouraging students to pursue further studies or careers in marine science. Learn more »

ALFRED UNIVERSITY: ENGINEERING SUMMER INSTITUTE | View Website

Starts at $600 10th, 11th & 12th

In-Person

1 Week

Come experience our maker culture for yourself and learn about our unique, one-of-a-kind engineering programs. Torch test ceramics made for hypersonics and space flight, melt glass, explore our suite of ceramic, metal and plastic 3D printers, make and test a supercapacitor, learn how AI can optimize renewable energy systems and explore materials at the microscopic and atomic scale. Spend time with a dozen world-renowned engineering faculty and mingle with our graduate and undergraduate researchers. Learn more »

BOSTON ARCHITECTURAL COLLEGE: ON-SITE & VIRTUAL SUMMER ACADEMY View Website

$2,000

9th, 10th, 11th & 12th

Online & In-Person

5 Weeks

For 50 years, the Boston Architectural College’s Summer Academy Program has been a cornerstone of hands-on design education for high school students. Available as on-campus experience, or synchronous online format, students are empowered to work individually and collaboratively in small teams of eight to 10, fostering the development of fundamental design skills. Through design challenges, students delve into Ideation, sketching, drawing, digital design, digital fabrication, model-making and presentation skills. No experience is needed, just have a passion for design! Learn more »

BOSTON LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE | View Website

$599-$4,097

7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th & 12th

In-Person

1-3 Weeks

BLI is a summer STEM program for teens with campuses in Wellesley, Waltham and Boston. Three-week programs are competitive admissions-research programs that provide excellent credentials for college applications. Oneweek programs are introductory and hands-on. Programs are available in science, medicine, engineering and business. Residential and day-only options are available. Popular programs include biomedical and surgical research, astrophysics, electronics and robotics, anatomy, marine biology and many more. Learn more »

CAMP INTEGEM: HOLOGRAPHIC AR CODING, AI, ROBOTICS, 3D, GAME, ART & ANIMATION | View Website

$500-$2,999

7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th & College

Hybrid

1 Week - 1 Year

Enroll in the No. 1 AI & AR Program! Boost your skills, unleash your potential, earn school credits with our ACS WASC accredited K-12, pre-college and techleadership programs. Dive into AI, robotics, holographic AR coding, STEM, 2D/3D game design, digital art, 2D/3D animation, space/nature exploration and more. Step into your creations with holographic AR to experience the magic and ‘WOW’ in college applications. Beginner to advanced levels. Register now to secure your spot. Since 2018, we’ve taught students from 20+ countries. Learn more »

CASE WESTERN RESERVE PRE-COLLEGE PROGRAM | View Website

$1,295

9th, 10th, 11th & 12th

Online

2 and 4-Week Sessions

Case Western Reserve University’s pre-college program offers online courses in astrophysics/evolutionary biology, computer science, engineering, neuroscience and biomedical engineering for high school students. You’ll learn from CWRU instructors, receive expert mentorship throughout the course and earn a Certificate of Completion. The program offers courses that are 100% online so you can complete the course whenever your schedule allows. Experience engaging recorded video lessons, unit assignments and a final project to showcase all you’ve learned. Learn more »

CHAMPLAIN COLLEGE: PRE-COLLEGE SUMMER PROGRAMS | View Website

$4,500

10th, 11th & 12th

In-Person

12 Days

Interested in artificial intelligence? Biotech? Cybersecurity and digital forensics? Audio engineering? Digital media production? Game development? Explore what it takes to be an innovator alongside other motivated students. Located in Burlington, Vermont, one of the Best College Towns in the U.S., Champlain’s industry-expert faculty work with students in these exciting areas of study. Our hands-on learning model and in-state-of-the-art facilities provide students with the opportunity to develop tangible skills and portfolio work in these highly desirable fields. Space is limited. Learn more »

CODEWIZARDSHQ SUMMER CODING CLASSES | View Website

$447

7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th & 12th

Online

3 Weeks

CodeWizardsHQ offers students three unique opportunities to fast-track their coding education this summer. Three-week accelerated classes allow students to complete three full courses in one summer! Students learn Python, JavaScript and HTML/CSS. Our Python Track Program provides an immersive Python experience in three classes. APCS Prep prepares students for high school AP courses in Java. All classes are online and taught by industry professionals, providing a rigorous comprehensive program. Use Code TEENCODE to save $25 when enrolling. Learn more »

ENGINEERING SUMMER ACADEMY AT PENN |

>$3000

10th, 11th & 12th

In-Person

3 Weeks

View Website

ESAP welcomes highly motivated and talented students to explore college-level engineering. Our intensive, three-week program combines sophisticated theory with hands-on practical experience in cutting edge technologies. Work with leading faculty while earning college credit, live on Penn’s historic campus, and connect with new friends from around the world. Students can choose from one of these six courses offered: Biotechnology, Computer Graphics, Computer Science, Networks, Nanotechnology or Robotics. Learn more »

EXPLORE

STEM AT NEW YORK BY ENVISION | View Website

$3,095

7th & 8th

In-Person

1 Week

Future innovators, engineers, doctors and investigators begin building their path to success and get real, hands-on STEM experience at NYLF Explore STEM. Over six impactful days at one of our program locations, students explore career opportunities, gain increased confidence and leadership skills and envision their future on a “Mission to Mars,” all among like-minded and aspirational middle school students from around the country. Learn more »

GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY PRE-COLLEGE ONLINE PROGRAM | View Website

$1,795

9th, 10th, 11th & 12th

Online

Multi-length Courses

Available throughout the Year

Are you good at science? Curious about the different career paths you can take in the fields of tech, engineering or medicine? Georgetown University’s precollege online STEM courses offer the perfect way to get a head start on your college education and potentially your future. Learn with acclaimed Georgetown University professors and even gain insights from experts in your field of interest. If you are thinking about a future in STEM, we can help you find your fit. Learn more »

HARVARD SUMMER SCHOOL | View Website

Varies

9th, 10th, 11th & 12th

In-Person & Online

2 Weeks & 7 Weeks

Harvard Summer School is your chance to immerse yourself in a world-class academic experience. Learn from leading academics and share classes and activities with bright students from around the world, all while adding Harvard to your college applications. Discover what a Harvard Summer experience can do for your future. Learn more »

IMPERIAL GLOBAL SUMMER SCHOOL | View Website

£6,600

10th, 11th & 12th

In-Person

2 Weeks

Imperial Global Summer School is a two-week residential program, specifically designed for 16–17-year-olds with a passion for science, technology, engineering and medicine. Taught by Imperial academics, the program offers students a unique opportunity to develop their subject knowledge and gain practical skills alongside like-minded students, while adding weight to their future university applications. Program runs in July and August of 2024. Learn more »

LMU PRE-COLLEGE SUMMER PROGRAMS EXPLORING ENGINEERING

| View Website

$10,000

11th

In-Person

4 Weeks

This course is designed to introduce concepts relevant to engineering and to promote interest in the profession. The course seeks to establish a solid foundation of technical, creative, teamwork and communication skills for engineers through effective problem-solving, analysis and design techniques. Practical computer applications are integrated as tools to solve engineering problems through the use of spreadsheets and other software. The course introduces the use of manual and computer graphics in engineering design. Learn more »

NATIONAL STUDENT LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE | View Website

$2,795-$4,095

7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th & 12th

In-Person

6-18 Days

At the National Student Leadership Conference (NSLC), experience a future career firsthand. NSLC students explore a career through interactive and engaging workshops and simulations, meetings with leaders in their chosen field and exclusive behind-the-scenes trips and tours. You can choose from nearly 20 different programs in the STEM fields, including programs in medicine and health care, engineering, computer science and more. At the NSLC, you will live on a college campus and work with other students from around the world. Learn more »

NATIONAL YOUTH LEADERSHIP FORUM ENGINEERING AT UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN BY ENVISION | View Website

$4,195

9th, 10th, 11th & 12th

In-Person

1 Week

This immersive program will introduce you to the principles of engineering, including the design-thinking process and how it, along with other key concepts, can be applied across a variety of engineering disciplines. Over eight incredible days, you and fellow high school students will explore your passions while being exposed to the vast array of engineering professions. You will also apply your newfound skills to assist with achieving some of the sustainable-development goals set forth by the United Nations. Learn more »

NYU SCHOOL OF PROFESSIONAL STUDIES HIGH SCHOOL ACADEMY CAREER EDGE View Website

$3,000+

9th, 10th, 11th & 12th

In-Person

1 Week

Experience NYU and explore careers this summer! Immerse yourself in a oneof-a-kind college and career readiness experience at NYU’s Career Edge Summer High School Program. These one-week summer sessions allow you to explore career possibilities from project management and fintech to climate change and medicine. Meet friends from around the world, explore NYC and live in an NYU dorm! Get a taste of the real-world workplace while preparing for college life — only at NYU SPS! Learn more »

PATHWAYS TO STEM CELL SCIENCE | View Website

$895-$2,300

7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th & College

In-Person

1-2 Weeks

Pathways to Stem Cell Science serves California as a unique hub for biotechnology research, wet-lab facilities and science education. We provide lab-based biology programs that aren’t offered anywhere else in the world today for children of all ages. Participants learn cutting-edge science working hands-on in a biotech research facility with authentic research models and professional industry scientists. Our students gain rigorous preparation for high school education, science fair research, internships and college. Learn more »

REACH

CAMBRIDGE SUMMER SCHOOL - STEM | View Website

Starting at £5,995

9th, 10th, 11th & 12th

2, 4 or 6 Weeks

1-2 Weeks

Experience the wonders of STEM at the Reach Cambridge Residential Summer School! Our STEM course is your gateway to the world of science. This residential summer school program combines hands-on learning with theoretical knowledge, allowing you to gain a solid foundation for your future with cuttingedge innovations and the world of research and development. The program will fuel your curiosity and inspire. Join us in the academic home of Newton, Darwin, Hawking and more, guided by professionals of their field. Learn more »

RICE

$3,795

8th, 9th, 10th & 11th

In-Person & Online

1 Week

Rice ELITE Tech Camp is a week-long program of intensive STEM activities and engineering-design challenges for high school students. Developed by Rice University’s Center for Engineering Leadership, the Rice ELITE Tech Camp provides college-level instruction in engineering and technology fundamentals, equipping students with the tools they need to prepare for their next educational and career steps. Sessions include a hands-on curriculum that allows students to employ technical, scientific and analytical concepts to solve real-world problems. Learn more »

RICE UNIVERSITY PRE-COLLEGE PROGRAM |

$1,495

9th, 10th, 11th & 12th

Online

Multi-Length Courses

Available throughout the Year

View Website

Are you hoping to test out a subject before college? The Rice University PreCollege Program offers online courses for motivated high school students in subjects like genome engineering, physiology, aerospace and psychology. Experience learning from top Rice professors through engaging, tech-forward videos and demonstrations, and collaborate with in-the-know mentors. Work at your own pace and earn a Certificate of Completion from Rice University. Learn more »

ROSETTA INSTITUTE: MOLECULAR MEDICINE WORKSHOPS | View Website

$400-$3,580

7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th & 12th

Online, In-Person or Hybrid

2 Weeks - 6 Months

We offer workshops on molecular medicine for high-achieving high school and middle school students interested in pursuing careers in medicine or related fields, such as pharmacy, nursing, bioengineering or medical research. There are online and inperson options available, including residential camps held at some of the world’s best universities. Workshops include Molecular Biology of Cancer, Molecular Neuroscience, Medicinal Chemistry, Bioinformatics, Molecular Immunology, Molecular Biology of Aging, Biomedical Research, Astrobiology, Neurologic Bioinformatics, AI-Enhanced Bioinformatics and Intro to Cellular and Molecular Medicine. Learn more »

SCIENCE CAMPS OF AMERICA FOR TEENS | View Website

$2,795

8th, 9th, 10th, 11th & 12th

In-Person

10 Days

Get outside to study the volcanoes, rocks, streams, forests, ocean and sky of the Big Island of Hawaii. Learn science by experiencing it first hand, up-close and personal. Great summer programs for teens ages 13-17, international students welcome. Our programs take place July 1-10 and July 11-20. on the beautiful Hawaii, for students in grades 8-12. At Land and Sea Camp, campers engage with volcanoes (geology), the ocean (oceanography), the forest (biology, zoology) and the environment. At Air and Space Camp, you will have opportunities to learn about Earth’s atmosphere, about climate, and about astronomy, and about space exploration. The Big Island of Hawaii is the ideal location for experiencing the air and space sciences. Join us! Learn more »

SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY PRE-COLLEGE PROGRAMS | View Website

$1,995-$7,495

10th, 11th, 12th & College

Online & In-Person

1, 2, 3 & 4 Weeks

For 64 years, Syracuse University Office of Pre-College Programs has been providing high school students with the opportunity to explore college majors and potential career paths through its renowned pre-college programs. Students choose from over 100 credit and noncredit courses, either on campus or online. All courses are taught by Syracuse University faculty and instructors. Students learn to balance freedom and responsibility, much like a college student, and they return home feeling more confident, enthusiastic and ready for college. Learn more »

TEACH ME WALL STREET: WALL STREET, INVESTING AND TRADING | View Website

$950

9th, 10th, 11th & 12th

Online

2 Weeks - 20 Hours

Embark on a unique journey at our summer program where Wall Street meets STEM! Discover how the financial world eagerly seeks STEM talents for their analytical and technological skills. Dive into the stock market, investment strategies and risk management. Learn about the crucial role of STEM in driving innovation and efficiency in finance. Equip yourself with the tools to excel in the fast-paced world of Wall Street, a place where STEM expertise is increasingly valued and essential. Learn more »

TUFTS PRE-COLLEGE STEM PROGRAMS | View Website

$5,500

10th, 11th, 12th

In-Person & Online

2 Weeks

Join Tufts for two weeks this summer in our immersive Engineering, Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science Pre-College Programs for high school students! Tap into your forward-thinking side and put your problem-solving skills to work while meeting industry practitioners and fellow students from all around the world. Whether your interests involve machine learning, civic and electrical engineering or robotics, Tufts summer 2024 programs are suited to your ambitions and professional development. Learn more »

UC BERKELEY’S ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN SUMMER PROGRAMS | View Website

$2,900

9th, 10th, 11th, 12th & College

In-Person

2-5 Weeks

Explore how design might fit into your future this summer at UC Berkeley. On-campus programs in architecture and design will fire your imagination and set you on the path to achieving your goals. You’ll explore multiple aspects of environmental design and learn how to conceptualize and communicate your ideas in both 2D and 3D. College of Environmental Design offers several summer programs for students interested in architecture, design, landscape architecture and sustainable city planning. No prior design experience is necessary.

Learn more »

UC SAN DIEGO EXTENDED STUDIES PRE-COLLEGE PROGRAMS | View Website

Varies

7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th & College

In-Person

Varies

UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies Pre-College Programs for elementary, middle and high school students offer academically enriching experiences that leverage the power of an internationally ranked public university. Our immersive courses and workshops provide students with concrete foundations in STEAM education, 21stcentury essential skills and global stewardship. We offer cutting-edge coursework and career development programs that can make students more competitive candidates for college admissions and internship opportunities. Credit-bearing programs and coursework offered year-round in multiple formats. Learn more »

UMASS AMHERST PRE-COLLEGE SUMMER PROGRAMS | View Website

$3,545

9th, 10th, 11th & 12th

Online & In-Person

1, 2, 3 & 6 Weeks

Join UMass Amherst’s Summer Pre-College program and experience the advantage of studying STEM at a major R1 university. Offering online and inperson options at UMass Amherst and the UMass Mount Ida campus in the greater Boston area. Students will learn from UMass faculty and graduate students, exploring their academic interests and building skills for college. Sessions range from 2 to 6 weeks in length. Topics include engineering, architecture, anthropology, veterinary medicine, astronomy, kinesiology, lab research and more. Learn more »

UNCW MARINEQUEST SUMMER PROGRAMS | View Website

$235-$3,200

7th, 8th, 9th, 10th & 11th

In-Person

1-2 Weeks

MarineQuest offers a variety of summer programs for ages 12 to 17. Whether you are looking for an opportunity for your small fry to explore the fish life cycle, or your high school student to explore what marine science might be like in college, we have a program to fit your needs. All MarineQuest programs are designed to provide students with developmentally appropriate opportunities to explore, discover and value marine habitats. Learn more »

UNITED STATES NAVAL ACADEMY SUMMER STEM | View Website

$700

9th, 10th, 11th

In-Person

1-Week Sessions throughout June

The United States Naval Academy Summer STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) is designed to encourage rising 9th-11th graders to pursue a course of study in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. During this residential program, campers will create, build and explore in world-class lab facilities while experiencing real-life application and learning at one of the Top 5 “Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs” in the country, as ranked by U.S. News and World Report. Learn more »

UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER PRE-COLLEGE ONLINE PROGRAM | View Website

$1,295

9th, 10th, 11th & 12th

Online

2 or 4-Week Sessions

If you have a passion for STEM, explore these fields with one of the world’s leading research universities. The University of Rochester offers engaging online courses in subjects like medicine, biomedical engineering, video game design and more for high school students, ages 13 and up. Each course features engaging video by Rochester faculty and access to mentors. The program is available year-round, and the online format lets you study anywhere, anytime, at your own pace. Learn more »

UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN COMPUTER SCIENCE SUMMER ACADEMIES View Website

$799-$2,500

9th, 10th, 11th, 12th

In-Person & Online

One or Two Weeks

Discover a unique summer learning experience at our academies on campus at the University of Texas at Austin. Our residential academies deliver specialized programs in machine learning, robotics, game development and iOS app development, providing a focused introduction to key areas of computer science. Join an academy to learn directly from UT computer science faculty, explore the world of computer science, learn to code or grow your coding skills and get a taste of collegiate life! Learn more »

VERITAS AI PROGRAMS FOR MIDDLE & HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS | View Website

$1,790 - $4,900 (Financial Aid Available)

7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th & 12th

Online

2 Weeks - 3 Months

(Depending on the Program)

Veritas AI is an AI program for middle and high school students, founded and run by Harvard grad students. In the program, students learn the fundamentals of data science and AI, interact with world-class practitioners and build a personalized project that they can use for college applications and beyond. No coding skills are required and the program has levels for advanced students. Applications are on a rolling basis! Learn more »

WENTWORTH INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY: IMPACTLAB | View Website

$3,495

11th & 12th

In-Person

2 Weeks

ImpactLab is an innovative two-week residential summer experience for rising juniors and seniors in high school. This hands-on program will give students a chance to explore their passions in science, engineering and design. Program highlights include: getting to know like-minded peers from around the globe as you preview college life, experiencing our beautiful Boston campus and all this city has to offer and learning alongside our engaging faculty using our state-ofthe-art studios and labs. Learn more »

WORLD SCHOLARS ACADEMY | ELITE STEM COURSES | View Website

$2,695

7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th & 12th

Online

2-4 Weeks

World Scholars Academy offers elite academic courses and research internships in engineering, computer science, mathematics and the medical sciences. All programs are taught live online by world-leading instructors from top universities, such as Oxford and Cambridge, providing high-level instruction into your chosen discipline. Study for success with individual attention and personalized academic guidance in our exclusive small-group classes (max six students), while connecting with other ambitious peers from around the world. Limited places available for aspiring scholars ages 12-18. Learn more »

BRIDGEWATER STATE UNIVERSITY: CYBERSECURITY AND DIGITAL FORENSICS, B.S.

View Website

See Website

Public Bridgewater, Mass.

Information Technology

As cybercriminals become more sophisticated, the need for highly trained cybersecurity professionals becomes increasingly important. Armed with Bridgewater State University’s cybersecurity degree, you will be ready to start a lucrative and exciting career in cybersecurity. We are committed to training cybersecurity experts and diversifying the field. Learn more »

UNIVERSITY OF TORONTO ENGINEERING | View Website

$14,180 (Ontario residents), $15,330 (non-Ontario, Canada residents) & $67,370 (international students).

Public Toronto, Ontario Engineering

Through rigorous technical training and unparalleled extracurricular and professional experience opportunities, U of T Engineering prepares the next generation of engineering leaders and changemakers to unlock the future’s boundless potential. When you join U of T Engineering, you are joining more than Canada’s No. 1 Engineering School – you are joining a community of engineers finding bold solutions for a better world. Learn more »

American Association for the Advancement of Science

https://www.aaas.org

Association for Women in Science

https://www.awis.org

Code https://code.org

Code Academy

https://www.codecademy.com

First https://www.firstinspires.org

Girls Who Code

https://girlswhocode.com

Khan Academy

https://www.khanacademy.org

NASA STEM Engagement

https://www.nasa.gov/education/materials/

National STEM Honor Society

https://www.nstem.org

Project Lead the Way

https://www.pltw.org

Revolution Robotics Foundation

https://revolutionrobotics.org

Science News

https://www.sciencenews.org

Scratch Foundation

https://www.scratchfoundation.org

STEM Works

http://stem-works.com/subjects

Society of Women Engineers https://swe.org

Smithsonian Science Education Center

https://ssec.si.edu

National Science Foundation

https://www.nsf.gov/news/classroom/

New York Academy of Sciences

https://www.nyas.org

USACO

https://usaco.guide/

Wolfram | Alpha

https://www.wolframalpha.com

Your Future In STEM: WHAT CAN YOU EARN?

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook

very year, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics publishes data related to job trends across a number of different industries. This data includes information on occupation growth, the minimum level of education required for certain jobs and the annual median earnings for workers in a specific field. If you’re looking forward to a career in STEM, there’s good news. According to the latest Labor Statistics report, jobs in computer and information technology are expected to grow 10% over 10 years, one of the fastest rates of growth across all industries. Employment in engineering fields is also expected to grow, at a slower rate of 3% over the next 10 years. Even at this average growth rate, however, nearly

5,700 jobs are expected to be added in the engineering industry in the next decade. Many of these new positions are to be in the engineering technologists and technicians industry, as more and more parts of the industrial economy need in-depth knowledge. Rapid job growth is also expected in other STEM fields, like physical, life and biological scientists, as well as science technicians. As of May 2022, the median annual salary for workers in the computer and information technology industry was $100,530. The median annual wage in the engineering and architecture industry was $83,700. Both of these figures are significantly higher than the overall median wage across all industries, which comes in at $46,310. Take a look at the selected jobs below, and see what you could earn in STEM!

MEDIAN ANNUAL WAGES FOR SELECTED STEM OCCUPATIONS

engineers design primarily aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles.

Agricultural engineers solve problems concerning power supplies, machine efficiency, the use of structures and facilities, pollution and environmental issues, and the storage and processing of agricultural products.

Bioengineers and biomedical engineers combine engineering principles with sciences to design and create equipment, devices, computer systems, and software.

Chemical engineers apply the principles of chemistry, biology, physics, and math to solve problems that involve the use of fuel, drugs, food, and many other products.

programmers write and test code that allows computer applications and software programs to function properly.

use software to convert the designs of engineers and architects into technical drawings.

security analysts plan and carry out security measures to protect an organization’s computer networks and systems.

Nuclear engineers research and develop the processes, instruments, and systems used to derive benefits from nuclear energy and radiation.

Surveying and mapping technicians collect data and make maps of the Earth’s surface.

Web developers create and maintain websites. Digital designers develop, create, and test website or interface layout, functions, and navigation for usability.

The Power of Pairing STEM AND LIBERAL ARTS

tudents pursuing STEM would do well to take some classes in the arts and humanities areas, as well. Making one’s fields of study well rounded can only add to skill sets and viability in a number of careers. If you’re looking to go into STEM, just know that taking classes in the humanities can enhance your potential after your schooling is finished.

DIVERSITY CAN HELP YOU IN MANY CAREERS

“The benefit of majoring in a STEM field, while also taking courses in the humanities, social sciences and arts, is that students can go on to almost any job that other students studying purely in STEM can, but they will have the added benefit of having societal context for their work.

Liberal Arts/STEM grads could be engineers, math-ematicians, technical writers, teachers or intellectual-property lawyers,” said Thyra L. Briggs, vice president for admission and financial aid with Harvey Mudd College (Claremont, California). “There are really no limits.”

Working as a technical writer involves a heady knowledge of the minutiae of computer and tech workings, but your writing skills can be further honed by taking more humanities-focused classes that narrow in on writing essays and reading more diverse subjects. Also, you could become a science or math teacher, in which case, a strong sense of speaking and writing skills would help you explain the concepts to your students.

Thinking of studying to become a doctor or a physician? Taking a class in sociology or philosophy could add a new level of empathy for patients. Many become doctors to help people, and the humanities can only add to that. “Some healthscience students at my institution take classes in sociology, communication and philosophy to better understand what patients might be experiencing and how to work with them,” said David Kinner, dean at the College of Arts and Sciences at Western Carolina University.

Working as a science and technology journalist offers a

melding of both fields for those looking for ways to diversify their studying. The STEM classes give you the know-how to handle difficult, expert-focused subjects in the STEM fields, and journalism classes can help you learn how to write objectively, interview and handle sources and adhere to the practices to treat a story fairly. Both together can make sure you have the right capacity to handle the complex topics of STEM in writing form.

Wanting to go into graphic design? Taking traditional art classes is a good idea. They can give you an understanding of the fundamentals of art and design that have been known for generations. Students can get more of a sense of where things go for the most eye-pleasing designs. Knowing about color and arrangements can give you the sense of how to put together something that looks good.

ETHICS CONCERNS

As technology is constantly evolving, so are the issues that could arise from its innovations. Taking liberal arts courses can have you reading, writing and analyzing ethics questions that could arm you with the knowledge to navigate those issues. Popular artificial-intelligence technology has recently caused controversy and concerns with plagiarism, as companies have mined existing works for training computers. Social media has long faced troubles with privacy, coming under fire for datacollection practices and the ease with which people can now be found.

“One area that comes to mind is the range of ethical concerns that come from the development of AI and the use of social media. We need creators who understand and think ethically and critically about those concerns. We also need people who can understand people’s needs and uses that knowledge and empathy to design technology,” Kinner said. Classes in creative disciplines can give you an understanding of the concerns of others, and how to balance the rampant technological and scientific advancements of the modern day with what’s actually best for people. Knowing about both can give you a wellrounded perspective. Studying both can help you help others

NEEDING COMMUNICATION SKILLS DURING COVID

One thing Briggs said was learned during the COVID-19 pandemic was “how important it is that we are able to communicate science to the public.” During the initial confusion of the pandemic, scientists had to explain how the virus was spread, as well as why things like masking and social distancing were important. The sciences are full of complexities and strange nuances that people may not always understand, and learning to read a variety of texts and honing the ways you speak to others can give you the skills you need to make the information palatable for those who aren’t so well-versed in the sciences.

By understanding culture and the history of art, you can be able to reference things, connect various themes between elements of what you’re doing and create things that resonate with people, in a variety of jobs and disciplines. Nothing exists in a vacuum, and studying culture can only broaden the mind and make your work sharper. The deeper your understanding of art, the more enriched and enlivened your mind can be for any kind of work.

HOW YOU CAN BRING IT ALL TOGETHER

STEM degrees can be rigid — many degrees have intensive

course requirements, so students might not have the time to take humanities or arts courses. According to Kinner, there could be some ways around that. “If they are interested in taking both types of courses, they could look for interdisciplinary programs that include both liberal arts and STEM coursework, or work with their college adviser to develop a plan that includes both and meets their needs,” he said.

Ultimately, studying both STEM and liberal arts is only sensible in the modern day. “The rapid pace of change in the world demands that students are agile and adaptable, can work with others with different perspectives, are creative problems solvers and can see connections across disciplines,” Briggs said. “This can’t happen if students haven’t studied broadly.”

Some employer surveys conducted by the American Association of Colleges and Universities have emphasized this, according to Kinner. “The surveys indicate that a broad education is critical for all jobs, as they help students develop a range of skills,” he said. One such survey cited on StudyUSA. com found that 81% of employers were looking for more emphasis on critical thinking, and 89% said they’d like to see more on written and oral communications.

Experience student life at our two-week residential summer programme. Taught by Imperial academics, you’ll develop your subject knowledge and gain practical skills alongside likeminded students from across the world, while adding weight to your future university application.

YOUR FUTURE IN STEM: SCHOLARSHIPS FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS

STEM education from a college or university is indispensable to a student’s career. The ability to work on projects with like-minded peers and the opportunity to connect with established figures in the STEM world are just a few of the benefits that can come with attending a program like the ones listed in this guide.

Additionally, in most STEM fields, higher education is not optional. Many STEM jobs require a bachelor’s degree for even an entry-level position, and higher-paying occupations may require even more schooling.

However, like in all disciplines, the cost of higher education

in STEM is only growing more expensive. That’s why we’ve put together this list of STEM scholarships for teens.

Some of the scholarships listed here have deadlines quickly approaching or require specific prerequisites for application, so be sure to read the terms of the scholarship fully before applying. We also encourage you to seek out opportunities closer to home, as many local communities have STEM scholarships available to students from their area. Additionally, if you’ve already applied to a college or university, be sure to inquire about whether or not they have any STEM-specific scholarships available.

Take a look and start applying today!

» American Society of Mechanical Engineers Scholarships

» Association of State Dam Safety Officials Scholarship Program

» Astronaut Scholarship Foundation

» Employment BOOST STEM Scholarships

» Great Minds in STEM Scholars Program

» Google SVA Scholarship

» Herbert Levy Memorial Physics Scholarship

» LabRoots STEM Scholarships

» Latinas in STEM Scholarships

» Lockheed Martin Scholarships

» Microsoft STEM Tuition Scholarship

» NACME Minority Engineering Scholarship

» Out to Innovate LGBTQ+ STEM Scholarship

» Pixel-Plex Bi-Annual STEM Scholarship

» Peggy Dixon Two-Year Physics Scholarship

» Steinmen Engineering Scholarship

» UNCF STEM Scholars Program

» Universities Space Research Associations (USRA) Awards

JOIN CANADA’S #1 ENGINEERING SCHOOL

Great ideas are just the beginning — we help make them a reality. When you choose U of T Engineering, you are choosing an education that goes beyond the classroom.

Learn more about our unique program offerings, PEY Co-Op, pre-university summer learning opportunities and why we’re a great place to launch your future.

Learn More: uofteng.ca/discover

LESSER-KNOWN STEM CAREERS

ou may be considering your options for careers in STEM, and the field is larger than you’re likely imagining. Beyond the standard jobs in tech, working at the big name-brand companies, or developing apps in Silicon Valley, there are innumerable possibilities as to what you could do with a STEM degree once you’re done with school. Many of them can take you places you might not have gone otherwise, while others are perfectly suited for those with specific passions they’re looking to follow.

STEM ultimately incorporates many facets of how the world keeps moving forward. One of them is the

detection and treatment of diseases. You could become a gene therapist. According to an article by Twig Education, gene therapy involves replacing a defective mutant allele with a functional one, which could eventually be developed into a way to fight diseases, like cancer and AIDS. One recent case saw a French sickle-cell patient cured of his disease when scientists figured out how to alter the genetics in his bone marrow to start producing healthy red-blood cells.

It’s not all about working in the cold recesses of a lab, though. Maybe you want to work outdoors. In that case, consider taking a job as an aquarist, specializing in caring for marine life and preservation. That could involve taking care of endangered sea creatures in captivity or

working on training sea creatures for various shows for the public. You’ll need a degree in marine biology or zoology, as well as a scuba-diving certification, according to an article from Twig Education.

Those seeking a little more danger could take a job as a volcanologist. The job involves studying ash and rock samples, simulating explosions in a controlled environment and listening to the noises of active volcanoes — and there can be plenty of travel to exotic locales. Those wanting to take on such a job need to study geology, geophysics, geochemistry and things like oceanography and meteorology to have a more comprehensive knowledge.

Maybe you want to work in some kind of entertainment field. STEM has your back there, too — you could always seek a job as a pyrotechnic engineer for live events. Working with firework displays requires an in-depth knowledge of chemistry, physics and mathematics, and you can then use the skills to put on highly technical and vibrant displays for live concerts or parades at the holidays or any number of other such events.

If you’re looking for another thrill-seeking gig, you could become a roller-coaster engineer. Per a piece from Study International, roller-coaster engineers incorporate studies of mechanical engineering, design and just pure creativity in order to create inventive new rides that bring joy to those who seek that kind of a thrill. It requires getting a degree in mechanical or structural engineering, but the care that goes into designing something inventive, as well as accounting for safety and accessibility, can stretch your creative muscles.

If that’s not your thing, you could go for a career in sound engineering for movies and TV, live music or theater. Arming yourself with a knowledge of how to work the technical equipment and record, mix, amplify and edit sound can help you keep entertainment going for any number of creative projects for others.

Or your skills could go toward beautifying people. Look into becoming a fragrance chemist — by studying odor molecules, you’ll learn how to make scents, which can be used for perfumes, soaps, lotions and other things used daily and often not thought of in a scientific manner.

Most fragrance chemists, according to a TwigEducation piece, have degrees in chemistry or biochemistry, often high-level ones like PhDs. To that end, you can also become a cosmetic scientist, using chemistry to concoct the creams and balms that we use daily for better skin and hair.

Many of these jobs are focused on contributing something concrete to the world. It comes from a curiosity for life and how to advance whatever causes you’re working on. If that description fits you, you could take classes incorporating human-centered design. The principle of the discipline is to make sure technology accommodates human needs — to work with whatever systems you’re using to make them as easy as possible to use.

No matter what kind of technology you’re using or what work you’re doing, it needs to be easy for people to use. An introduction from the Interaction Design Foundation lists the way computers evolved to prompt you to save

your work as one example. Early computers wouldn’t prompt users to save their work at all before turning the computer off. Then that evolved into a pop-up box asking if you wanted to save, and now, modern computers auto-save. whether you prompt them to or not. That’s an example of human-centered design — technology evolving based on what makes peoples’ work easier.

Numerous schools offer programs for human-centered design. As stated in a piece by Whitman College (Walla Walla, Washington), which is now offering a concentration in the field, human-centered design is a broad set of tools. It can be paired with other fields of study and used to tackle problems as varied as climate change and accessibility for those with different needs in the digital world, according to Michelle Janning, the Raymond and Elsie DeBurgh Chair of Social Sciences and professor of sociology, as quoted by Whitman College.

With persistence and passion, you are sure to find a career in STEM that can keep you engaged and fulfilled.

STUDENT TESTIMONIAL:

Spencer Foss

UC SAN DIEGO RESEARCH SCHOLARS (MARINE BIOLOGY)

Why Did You Choose to Participate In This Program?

I chose to participate in UC San Diego Research Scholars: Marine Biology because I have been a part of other Marine Biology programs and lectures at Birch Aquarium, and wanted to continue my studies. I have a passion for Marine Biology and UCSD is an excellent place due to its field research at Scripps Institute of Oceanography (SIO). The ocean is a key part of this world, and I feel especially connected to it and its inhabitants. This program gave me the opportunity to dive deeper into marine organisms and discuss environmental impacts.

How Did You Decide Which Program Was Right For You?

I was looking for programs to participate in during my school breaks to further my education on a topic I was interested in, which led me to the UCSD website. I was looking through the academics page and found the UCSD Extension department. I had visited the UCSD campus for a lecture at Scripps when I was younger and thought that participating in their Marine Biology programs would be fantastic. I looked at the catalog and chose a course involving coral, as I knew it was an important ecosystem whose existence is currently threatened by climate change. After participating in the course, I immediately wanted to enroll in others, as I discovered a community of people who shared an interest in my beloved marine world.

What Was the Most Memorable Moment of Your Program?

The most memorable moment was being able to perform research in a lab, and then present those findings to the general public at Cabrillo National Monument Visitor’s Center. I not only was able to utilize infrared technology for thermal ecology, but also was provided other materials like heating pads and heat lamps along with additional items needed for the experiment.

I literally experienced “life on the edge” when we maneuvered through an intertidal to gather samples for our research studies. Collecting with my teachers, Nicole Yen and Sonya Timko, by climbing along rocks and guiding crabs through crevices, allowed me to get a sense of what I would do in the field. Overall, I had an amazing adventure and Research Scholars fulfilled my hope of having the experience of being a Marine Biologist before college.

What Advice Do You Have For Teens Looking For Summer Programs?

My advice for teens looking into programs is to be ambitious!

My first course through UCSD Extension was meant for college level, but I was taking it as an incoming freshman in high school. Even though it was challenging, I mastered advanced concepts compacted in a short time and felt an amazing sense of accomplishment. For teens looking for an in depth experience, lead with your passion and just go for it! It is so worth it to meet new people who share your interests and instructors who are truly dedicated.