STEP into Science

Dickinson is proud to be participating in the National Science Foundation (NSF) Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Talent Expansion Program (STEP). The program, open to diverse students of all backgrounds, will help to increase representation and diversity in the sciences and mathematics.

The $500,000 grant provides funding for:

• ten days of summer bridge prior to the start of the fall 2013 semester
• an eight-week research project in the summer following either the first or second year
• assistance with placement at a major research university during the summer prior to senior year.

Early success in a research setting helps to build confidence and convinces students they can compete at the college level. The goal of the program is to increase diversity among science majors by recruiting underrepresented minorities into cohorts participating in enrichment workshops and research projects.

Who Should Apply

Dickinson will recruit a cohort of 10-12 talented and motivated students into NSF-STEP who will expand the diversity of underrepresented students in these fields. We are seeking young people who are interested in majoring in the sciences, technology or math.

Program Components

Pre-Matriculation Program

Students enter Dickinson in the summer before their first year and participate in a ten-day summer bridge opportunity that includes a series of workshops, a discussion about research ethics, social activities, advising and mentoring.

On-Campus Research

In the summer following their first-year or their sophomore year members in each NSF-STEP cohort will have the opportunity to engage in an extended, eight-week, paid summer research experience with a member of the Dickinson faculty.

Research at Other Institutions

This program will also assist with placing each of the members of the NSF-STEP cohort in a major research site in academia or industry during the summer following their junior year at Dickinson. This opportunity to gain exposure and experience in a larger research environment is expected to solidify the participants’ skills, confidence and desire for graduate work.

Applying for the Program

To apply for NSF-STEP, you must first complete and submit the Common Application for admission to Dickinson plus a short NSF-STEP application. The information you supply on your NSF-STEP application as well as information from your Common Application (transcript, essays, letters of recommendation) will become part of the review process for NSF-STEP. Application review for NSF-STEP will begin in early February and continue until all spaces are filled.