Computer Science, Engineering, and Mathematics Scholarships Program

Houston Community College, Houston TX

Investigators

Abstract

The Houston Community College System (HCCS) CSEM Scholarship Program provides scholarships, curriculum enrichment, a full range of student support services, and summer internships to give participants field experience in the business community. The program prepares talented students to compete successfully in baccalaureate degree programs and in the workplace while encouraging the institutionalization of program student supports and extending partnerships within the business community for the benefit of future students studying in CSEM disciplines. The objectives of the program are: Objective 1. Recruit 40 students into an Associate of Science and Associate of Applied Science scholarship program. Objective 2. Retain at least 75% of participants to the completion of a degree and transfer to a baccalaureate degree program through a strong program of curriculum enrichment that addresses the needs of underrepresented students. Objective 3. Provide 100% of program participants with real-world experience and enthusiasm for their chosen field of study through a summer internship program in partnership with corporations in the local community. Key features of the program include the following: *A six-week summer program, the CSEM Summer Academy, that integrates CSEM disciplines and stimulate participants to explore career opportunities through a variety of hands-on activities, speakers, and field trips. *Paid summer internships with businesses in the Houston community to increase enthusiasm and motivation to pursue CSEM careers. *Integration with other HCCS programs to provide participants with a range of enrichment activities, including a programs of the Department of Computer Science and a System-wide NASA Challenge Enrichment Program. *A strong mentoring program of assigned faculty advisors and faculty mentors to guide and advise the participants and to ensure that they receive all the support services they need.