Building STEM Pathway Access in Mississippi
GrantID: 12855
Grant Funding Amount Low: $10,000
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $40,000
Summary
Grant Overview
STEM Pathway Scholarships for Girls in Mississippi
Mississippi faces significant challenges in advancing women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. With women representing only 32% of the workforce in these sectors, there is a pressing need to improve access and support for young women aspiring to enter STEM careers. The state’s educational system often lacks adequate resources and programs tailored to encourage female students in these disciplines, resulting in a significant gender gap in STEM participation.
The barriers are particularly pronounced for high school seniors from low-income households or rural areas, who often attend schools with limited access to advanced STEM courses and extracurricular activities. Many of these students may not have access to mentors or role models who can guide them through the complexities of pursuing higher education in STEM fields, further limiting their opportunities to succeed.
In response to these challenges, the STEM Pathway Scholarships for Girls in Mississippi initiative provides $10,000 annually for up to four years for female high school seniors with significant financial need. This funding not only alleviates the financial strain of college tuition but also provides crucial mentorship from women professionals currently working in STEM fields. This combination of financial support and mentorship is essential to address both the economic and social barriers that young women face in Mississippi.
Participants in this program will also engage in hands-on STEM projects that encourage problem-solving skills and foster creativitykey components to success in these fields. By providing real-world experiences alongside academic support, the initiative prepares participants to navigate their educational journeys and emerge as competent candidates for STEM careers.
What distinguishes Mississippi from other states is its concentrated focus on breaking down barriers specifically for young women in rural areas, where access to educational resources is particularly limited. The STEM Pathway Scholarships initiative, therefore, not only aims to empower aspiring female scientists and engineers but also seeks to address the unique challenges faced by women in the state's more underserved communities.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
