AccessSTEM Team Members

The AccessSTEM Team engages high school and postsecondary students, along with mentors from STEM fields. Specifically, the Team includes:

• SPS high school students with disabilities considering STEM fields.
• College and graduate school students at AccessSTEM partner schools who are pursuing STEM or considering STEM fields.
• Other individuals—including project staff and mentors—who are engaged in the disability community, STEM academic or career fields, or have other expertise that is of value to the AccessSTEM community.

Adult mentors are an important part of the AccessSTEM Team. AccessSTEM Mentors are college students, faculty, and professionals in a wide variety of STEM fields, many with disabilities themselves. Mentoring takes place on the Internet and at college campuses. Frequent electronic communications and personal contacts bring AccessSTEM participants together with Mentors to facilitate academic, career, and personal achievements. Mentors offer the following:

• Information. Mentors share their knowledge, experiences, and wisdom.
• Contacts. Mentors provide valuable opportunities by facilitating academic, career, and personal contacts.
• Challenges. Mentors stimulate curiosity and build confidence by presenting new ideas, opportunities, and challenges.
• Support. Mentors encourage growth and achievement by providing an open and supportive environment.
• Goal Setting. Mentors help students discover talents and interests and define and attain their goals.
• Advice. Mentors guide students in reaching academic, career, and personal goals.
• Role Modeling. Mentors share their experiences, perspectives, and pathways to success.