In New York, as in the nation, there is an acute underrepresentation of minorities in professional education and, as a consequence, in the licensed professions.
The Science & Technology Entry Program (STEP) at the College of Dental Medicine is a highly structured educational program whose purpose is to act as an educational adjunct for minority and/or economically disadvantaged students in Grades 7 to 12.
During the academic year from October to May, approximately 100 students receive academic enrichment on Saturdays in English, math, and science. A one-month summer program for the younger students in July combines academic instruction with educational field outings in the NYC metropolitan area. Older students are offered a Kaplan SAT preparation course.
All program components—academic instruction, career counseling, workshops, and other enrichment activities—serve to prepare students for successful entry into college and encourage them to consider opportunities to become licensed professionals in the health, technical, or scientific areas.
Who is eligible? Any student entering Grades 7 to10 who is economically disadvantaged (as defined by NYS guidelines) or a member of a minority historically under-represented in the scientific, technical and health professions is welcome to apply to STEP. Students are encouraged to remain in the program until high school graduation.
Program Goals
The long-range goals of the program are to provide academic enrichment, research exposure, and political and health awareness, assist students in acquiring skills in basic computer operations and concepts, develop strategies for academic retention of adolescent minority and/or disadvantaged male students, and prepare students for successful entry into college.
In New York, as in the nation, there is an acute underrepresentation of minorities in professional education and, as a consequence, in the licensed professions.
Who is eligible?
provide academic enrichment, research exposure, and political and health awareness,
