As part of the Hispanic Serving Institutions-Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (HSI STEM) and Articulation program at the United States Department of Education (the ED), Bakersfield College has received $5 million for its “Step Up to STEM: Start Strong, Stay Strong, Finish Strong” project.
The purpose of the ED’s Hispanic-Serving Institutions – Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (HSI STEM) and Articulation Programs is to increase the number of Hispanic and low-income students attaining degrees in the fields of science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM), and develop model transfer and articulation agreements between two-year and four-year institutions in such fields.
“Bakersfield College is a leader in providing high-quality education to traditionally underserved students,” Dr. Zav Dadabhoy, president of Bakersfield College, said in a statement. “While we are supporting them with high-tech and high-touch support, we are simultaneously growing our programs because our students are engaging with their education at a younger age and these intentional support systems help them grow in confidence to know they are capable of achieving great things.”
More than 80% of Bakersfield College’s student body are first-generation and 78% receive financial aid. At least 70% identify as Latino or Hispanic. In 2019-2020, BC achieved parity in enrollment and completion for this population with 70% of associate degree-for-transfer earners identifying as Hispanic/Latino/a/x.
“With programs like this, we’re able to better support STEM-interested students starting the path with lower math attainment from high school or are coming back to the classroom after many years in the workforce,” said James McGarrah, associate dean of instruction of physical science and engineering. “Self-esteem is a major issue for these populations of students. This program will attempt to tackle that challenge head-on. It’s a win-win because we’re further fostering our commitment to an equity-centered learning environment while preparing students to start strong, stay strong, and finish strong on a pathway which is so critical to our local economy.”
The project at Bakersfield College is composed of three phases.
Start Strong: addressing the student intake and orientation process
Stay Strong: focusing on developing learning communities that are critical for STEM success
Finish Strong: working to bridge the gaps in transfer, enabling students to maintain momentum on their path towards entering the skilled workforce efficiently and effectively, including internship and research opportunities.
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