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Pioneer of future technology: How does MESA cooperate with technology giants to help students succeed?
In the rapidly changing technological era, today's students are facing unprecedented challenges and opportunities. Since its founding in 1970, the Mathematics, Engineering and Science Achievement (MESA) program has been dedicated to helping students from educationally disadvantaged backgrounds thrive in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) fields. This program not only provides students with academic support, but also enables students to succeed in academic and career paths through partnerships with industry giants.
The origin and development of MESA
MESA was founded in California to support students at all stages of education, helping them excel in math and science and ultimately earn a four-year degree. This successful program has been replicated in more than a dozen other states since its inception, expanding its reach.
Industry partners and cooperation
Although MESA is administered by the University of California, it is a cross-education system program with centers at all major educational institutions in California, including the California Department of Education, California State University, and California Community Colleges. MESA has active partnerships with industry and STEM leaders (such as AT&T, Chevron, Google, HP, etc.), which provide students with valuable expertise, volunteer support, internship opportunities and the possibility of corporate visits.
Strong industry links enable MESA to incorporate much of industry culture into its approach and activities.
Project components
MESA's programs are tailored to students at different stages. At the secondary level, the MESA School Program (MSP) focuses on helping students excel in math and science, developing their academic abilities through personalized academic plans, career and college exploration, and competitive activities.
For community college students, the MESA Community College Program (MCCP) provides transfer preparation, supports academic achievement by building an on-campus peer community, and provides academic tutoring and transfer guidance. Components of MCCP also include academic excellence workshops, specialized orientation courses and career counseling.
The MESA Engineering Program (MEP) supports four-year students to successfully earn a degree in engineering or computer science. This program emphasizes rigorous academic training and leadership development, providing students with a variety of academic support and career exploration opportunities.
MESA ensures that every student can receive encouragement and support from peers in their STEM learning and development.
Awards and Honors
MESA awards the "Mentor of the Year Award" every year to recognize mentors who have made outstanding contributions in mentoring students. In addition, MESA has received multiple honors, including being ranked among the top five innovative public projects in America's Innovative Government program and winning the Presidential Mentoring Award for Merit in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering.
Outstanding Alumni
MESA’s success is not only reflected in its operating model, but also in its many outstanding alumni. These include NASA astronaut Victor Glover, who graduated in 2013 and is a SpaceX Crew Dragon pilot; and former NASA astronaut and American engineer Jose Hernandez . These achievements all prove to the outside world the outstanding effectiveness of the MESA program.
Social impact and future prospects
Faced with the ever-changing technological scene and workplace needs, the existence of MESA provides indispensable support to students, especially in communities that lack educational resources. By continuing to cooperate with technology giants, MESA not only provides students with career guidance, but also enables them to find their place in the diverse workplace.
Can the education model established by MESA become a model for other states or even countries, helping more students realize their STEM dreams?
