NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — The Berkshire Bank Foundation has awarded MCLA $20,000 to fund the Berkshire Bank STEM Academy. 

 

The program accepts up to 15 incoming first-year students enrolled in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) major or who have expressed interest in STEM fields. The 2023 program will run from July 23-27.  

 

Designed to introduce incoming students to careers in STEM, the residential, five-day academy includes opportunities to network with STEM faculty, students, and staff in the interest of developing a deeper relationship with those involved in STEM careers in the Berkshires.  

 

Developed to serve low-income and first-generation college students, students are selected based on their responses to surveys taken upon their acceptance to the college. Alumni of the program have gone on to be leaders at MCLA as residential advisors, tutors, and supplemental instructors. Graduates have gone on to have careers at Raytheon, General Dynamics, Edge Pharma, and as public school teachers. 

 

During the residential program, where the majority of the awarded funds are spent, students will explore concepts in biology, chemistry, computer science, mathematics, environmental science, psychology, and physics through laboratory work and meeting with faculty. The programs ultimate goal is to encourage more students to secure jobs in the Berkshires and remain here after graduation.  

 

"My favorite part of the program is watching students make friends while getting a sneak peek of what college life will be like," said Program Coordinator Dr. Sara Steele. "When students start their first semester at MCLA, they already have an idea of what to expect, which leads to a smoother transition to college."   

 

There is additional programming planned throughout the year for the cohort. Past events have included networking opportunities, social gatherings, and workshops on college life and financial management.  

 

Those interested should apply by July 1 at https://forms.office.com/r/X7e1LwD0SG .