Aedilynne Palm and Kamera Gorden
I-C-STEM Interns
Jackson State University is hosting 34 students from middle and high schools around the state in the I See Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (I-C-STEM) program.
According to Edna Holbrook, I-C-STEM Coordinator, the goal of the program, which began at JSU in 2010, is to increase students’ participation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics careers, as well as to provide opportunities for students to receive training and certifications in specific areas of information technology.
The two-year program is geared towards students in grades 7th-9th and 10th -11th. The informal learning program features eight Saturday sessions during the school year, parent and participant workshops, weekly one-hour sessions with college mentors, summer internships and a two-week residential summer camp.
According to Alicia Jefferson, Internship Coordinator, during the academic year, the students attend classes in computer programming, web design, word processing, desktop publishing, and other areas of technology. During the two week residential camp, the students are placed in various departments at JSU to experience the practical applications associated with the theoretical knowledge they’ve gained from their classes.
Holbrook stated that the student participation rate is limited by the terms of the grant.
“The largest number of participants was in the 2nd year of the three year grant. In year one, we had first year participants. In year two, we had 83 first and second year participants and in year three we had only second year participants.”
Jefferson stated that there are several benefits for students who participate in the I-C-STEM program. Those benefits include the following:
- Students are exposed to different areas of technology.
- Students have an opportunity to see how technology is applied in various workforce settings.
- Students are able to engage in hands-on activities as they learn.
- Students get a chance to grow as independent workers as well as cooperative workers.
- Students gain knowledge in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics that will hopefully assist them with high school coursework and with making decisions regarding college and career choices.
Cantrell Banks, a senior at Christian Academy is one of the many students who have been exposed to the different aspects of science.
“I-C-STEM allows you to learn more about technology and get into the world so that you’ll know what you are dealing with in the future,” said Banks.
Warren Wheeler, a ninth grader at Madison Central High School stated that he has enjoyed his time in the I-C-STEM program.
“I like our experiences and the different software we come into contact with and the things we get to learn,” said Wheeler.
Many I-C-STEM students enjoy the opportunity to socialize with other student participants.
“Being able to stay on campus and interacting with people is a good benefit from ICSTEM,” said Joseph Araujo, a junior at Murrah High School.
Other students have benefited from the I-C-STEM program in their class work with better grades.
“Learning about apps and helping me get an A in my technology class was a great outcome (of the I-C-STEM),” said Isaiah Rush, a sophomore at Jim Hill High School.
For more information on how to participate in I-C-STEM, visit the Just Science Hall room 125 on the first floor at Jackson State or call Edna Holbrook at (601)-979-5993.
