As part of Women's History Month, Stony Brook University is actively engaging high school women in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) through its High School Women in STEM Career Awareness Series. This initiative involves 22 students from Longwood High School in Middle Island, NY.
The program spans four sessions and targets high school sophomores and juniors. It provides an overview of various STEM careers via interactive workshops, mentorship from faculty and industry professionals, and hands-on activities. Key areas covered include energy engineering, healthcare, artificial intelligence (AI), user experience (UX) design, and science communication.
In January, the first session introduced students to the energy sector with the support of the New York Power Authority (NYPA) and WhyMaker. Students participated in a practical exercise to map out a power transmission line using basic materials.
The second session in February took place at Stony Brook’s School of Health Professions. Here, students met clinical healthcare workers and engaged in respiratory care procedures as well as paramedic training.
Kimberly Amaya, an 11th-grade student participant, expressed how the health sciences introduction supported her career plans: “I want to go into a STEM-based career... this program has helped me see the different options available to me.”
On March 21st, AI and UX design were explored at the Center of Excellence in Wireless and Information Technology (CEWIT). Dominique Lee guided students on mobile app design while highlighting women's roles in STEM: “It’s always challenging finding your career pathway... The opportunity to help young women connect with a possible journey... is very rewarding.”
The series will conclude on April 23rd at CEWIT with a keynote speech by Judith Brown Clarke from Stony Brook University. Students will receive certificates for their participation.
Alexandra Eleanore Nelson White noted how the program helped clarify her future academic interests: “This program has opened my eyes to different careers.”
Scott Schuster from Longwood School District emphasized student enthusiasm for the program: “We can cast a net... they come in thirsty to learn more.” Participants were chosen based on their performance in STEM subjects along with attendance records and teacher recommendations.
Abigayle Gersbeck from Longwood High School highlighted the program's impact: “Many of them didn’t realize just how many options exist... Being on campus... makes STEM more tangible.”
Derek O’Connor from Stony Brook discussed broader goals: “Our goal isn’t just to guide students down a single career path but to expose them to as many opportunities as possible."
Longwood High School was selected due to its large student body and commitment to STEM initiatives. The initiative received support through a Stony Brook Presidential Mini Grant among other resources.