WCC’s STEM Scholars program shows why the college is the STEM Gem of the state.
Washtenaw Community College has always enjoyed a reputation as the go-to college for science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) courses for transfer and guest students. Smaller classes sizes, more one-on-one interaction with instructors, and learning from highly qualified professionals with a passion for teaching are all reasons students come to WCC.
Now in its second year, the STEM Scholars program is strengthening WCC’s case as the college for students interested in STEM-related careers.
“The STEM Scholars program is dedicated to helping students in the STEM majors maintain their (academic) focus, work together with other students, and prosper in their careers,” said Mary Joan Ngao, a STEM Scholar student from Belleville.
Funded through grants from the National Science Foundation, the STEM Scholars program is a collaboration between WCC and four universities – Michigan, Michigan State, Wayne State, and Western Michigan. The grants provide program funding as well as scholarships for underrepresented minority and economically disadvantaged students.
“Financially the STEM Scholars program has supported me a lot,” said Pablo Garcia of Ann Arbor. “Through the WCC STEM Scholars program I received two scholarships, which are helping me get an education now and save money for college later.”
The STEM Scholars program starts with a three-week intensive summer program where students learn social skills, financial literacy and study strategies; and have an opportunity to explore careers, visit major university campuses and build friendships.
“It’s like a summer camp where we got to know all of the other STEM Scholars,” said Katie (Katherine) Liddell of Ann Arbor. “That was a great team building exercise and really helps you gain a support system going into the semester.”
Another unique aspect of the program is the way students rely on each other and support each other socially and academically.
“Students within the program trust each other and go to each other for help,” said Dr. Susan Dentel, the college coordinator for the STEM Scholars program and WCC Life Sciences faculty member. “It is really a beautiful community of students helping each other.”
“Anytime I have a question, I’ll send it into the (STEM Scholars) group chat, or I’ll visit one of my instructors during office hours,” said Liddell. “WCC really gives you all the tools you need to succeed.”
According to Dentel, one of the goals of the program was to grow it beyond the two original grants. To do that, the College added SuperSTEAM Saturdays for middle school students and will be hosting a STEAM Week event for students and the community.
SuperSTEAM Saturdays, which provides hands-on STEM plus arts programing, is already a success and completely filled for the year. STEAM week, now in its second year, will feature interactive workshops, career presentations, documentaries, campus tours of labs and more.
The WCC STEM Scholars program is open to current college students, incoming high school graduates, and dual-enrolled Washtenaw Technical Middle College students. The next application deadline is Feb 10, 2020. Learn about STEM/STEAM career options and opportunities.
- Engage in fun and interesting hands-on activities that convey what it is like to work in a collaborative and creative environment.
- Attend interesting talks and demonstrations given by experts from academia and industry.
- For more information, please visit WCCNET.EDU/STEAM.
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