By Gayathri Narayanan
STEM programs are essential for college and university students because they provide direct exposure to innovative research, technology, and hands-on experience. These skills help students prepare for employment in fields that promote innovation and societal advancement. In addition to expanding students’ knowledge of STEM fields, these programs help them develop the critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork abilities necessary to tackle challenging real-world problems. Here are four engaging virtual STEM programs for college/university students!
1. Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) Program
Undergraduate students can participate in practical research activities in various STEM fields through the REU program. Students acquire valuable skills in data analysis, experimental design, and scientific communication through close collaboration on research projects with faculty mentors. REU programs give students hands-on research experience, allowing them to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills while exploring possible future routes in academia or industry. Participants usually receive housing, transportation assistance, and stipends. They also participate in seminars, workshops, and networking events to improve their research abilities and establish connections with peers and industry professionals.
2. NSF Innovation Corps (I-Corps) Program
The goal of the NSF I-Corps program is to train university staff and students in entrepreneurship to accelerate the industrialization of cutting-edge STEM research. Participants learn how to determine clients’ demands, evaluate the market potential of their research, and create viable business models. This program encourages STEM students to apply their scientific discoveries to real-world problems and launch businesses that have a social impact by teaching them entrepreneurial skills. The program includes discovering client interviews, startup team-building advice, and mentorship from seasoned business owners. Funding is given to teams to construct prototypes and perform market research.
3. NASA Internships
NASA provides hands-on experience in aerospace research and technology development to undergraduate and graduate students studying various STEM subjects through internships. By working on projects about robotics, satellite missions, space exploration, and scientific research, interns acquire real-world experience in engineering, programming, and data analysis. NASA internships offer students a rare opportunity to participate in state-of-the-art research initiatives and investigate prospective career pathways in space science and engineering. Interns have access to the latest tools and technology, are mentored by NASA scientists and engineers, and are given a chance to present their work at conferences and meetings.
4. Google Summer of Code (GSoC)
Under the guidance of experienced developers, GSoC is an international program that provides college students with stipends in exchange for their contributions to open-source software projects. By working on actual projects, participants gain practical experience in software development and learn new tools, best practices, and programming languages. GSoC gives students helpful experience working with international teams and making important contributions to projects that benefit the open-source community. Project developers mentor participants, online resources and documentation are available, and opportunities to interact with the larger open-source community via forums, mailing lists, and code reviews are provided.
In conclusion, these four virtual STEM programs, supported by NSTEM, offer college and university students invaluable hands-on experience, entrepreneurial skills, and diverse career pathways. These programs prepare students for success in today’s dynamic STEM landscape by fostering critical thinking and problem-solving abilities while promoting diversity and inclusion.
Do you want more resources on the topic of STEM programs? NSTEM’s vast resources database provides thousands of searchable STEM resources by category, school level, and state. This comprehensive library includes info on enrichment activities, curricula, internships, scholarships, and more. Check out a free sampling here. Or get an NSTEM membership today to unlock the complete list.
When a college/university student achieves membership in the National STEM Honor Society, the recognition, like many colleges, is in a Greek letter format. For the National STEM Honor Society, Epsilon Theta Mu is the designated recognition for members at the college/university level. Students are distinguished and stand out as a result of this recognition, increasing appealing employment and educational opportunities, click here.
