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ESSEX COUNTY COLLEGE STEM PROGRAM Newark, NJ  
Essex County College is committed to increasing the number of underrepresented minorities in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) fields.
Pursuant to this objective, the college has expanded the size and scope of its Hewlett Packard – MESA (Math, Engineering, Science Achievement) Center to provide intensive support for students in the “Cultivating the STEM” initiative. The project is supported by an NSF (National Science Foundation) STEP (Talent Expansion Program) grant. Academic plans have been developed, tutoring opportunities have increased, and Academic Excellence Workshops feature study skills and time management.
MESA initiatives include: Faculty mentoring and peer tutoring for small groups of students in the Center; high school educational outreach that exposes secondary students to STEM fields and uses contextual learning to address their developmental needs (Bridge In program); and a Bridge Out program that provides students with help to transfer to four-year universities as well as opportunities for industrial experience. More than 300 students participated in the grant activities last year, and that number is expected to increase within the next year as the center continues to expand its support services.
The STEM program aims to make Essex County College a model for urban community colleges serving a predominantly minority student population. ECC is the largest minority serving community college in New Jersey with 53% students African-American and almost 25% Hispanic.
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