MATHEMATICS, ENGINEERING, SCIENCE ACHIEVEMENT (MESA)

About OC MESA

Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement (MESA) is a nationally recognized academic enhancement program that looks beyond traditional student populations to meet future and global workforce demands in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

The existing MESA model was first motivated in the late 1960’s by group of concerned educators at the University of California—Berkeley who noted few African Americans, Latinos, and American Indians enrolled in the College of Engineering. A program of pre-college intervention was introduced, followed by similar intervention programs at four-year, and most recently, two-year institutions in California. Additional States— including Arizona, Colorado, Maryland, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah and Washington—developed similar programs and actively collaborate through the MESA USA partnership to provide opportunities for underrepresented populations in STEM.

Building upon MESA’s accomplished 40-year history serving students at all levels (K–12 to baccalaureate), the Olympic College MESA Program (OC MESA) provides a vital link for ensuring success as students transition from high school to four-year institutions.

The OC MESA Program is sponsored by the National Science Foundation (NSF) as part of a broader consortium of two-year colleges in the State. Other participating colleges include Columbia Basin College, Edmonds Community College, Highline Community College, Seattle Central Community College, and Yakima Valley Community College. The consortium is led by the University of Washington.

What Does OC MESA Offer?

In close partnership with industry, the community, and the State's education systems, OC MESA offers:

• Student orientation to encourage essential skills for academic/professional success.
• Collaborative learning techniques in weekly Academic Excellence Workshops to encourage mastery of key STEM concepts.
• Access to tutoring services.
• Financial assistance (scholarships/stipends) to qualified students.
• Integration of academics and intended careers through active industry participation in design competitions, field trips, mentorship, internships, and other.
• Supportive communities to encourage student success and leadership.
• A dedicated student center to support individual or group study; access to computer workstations; group presentations, meetings, and workshops; and social and recognition events.

Who is Eligible to Participate?

Participation in OC MESA is generally limited to students who are:

• Underrepresented in STEM—African American, Latino/Hispanic, Native American, and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander. Females are also often underrepresented.
• Intending to transfer to a four-year institution in pursuit of a STEM-related degree.
• Assessed at or above Elementary Algebra in their math skills.
• U.S. citizens or permanent residents of the United States.

Secondary participation criteria include a demonstrated financial need and an opportunity to be first in their family to attend college.

Rev.: April 16, 2013 Karen Osborn