WSU program brings no-cost STEM classes, experiences to high school students
OGDEN, Utah — Weber State University offers high school students a tuition-free opportunity to earn college credit and gain hands-on experience in technology and engineering.
Envisioneering Summer Bridge Program provides a seven-week college experience to students in grades 10 through 12. Alongside earning credits, it’s designed to boost confidence in STEM and offer a sense of belonging on campus.
From June through early August, students attend two classes on campus three days a week. Alongside coursework, they also participate in activities that introduce them to academic expectations, campus resources, and potential career paths in STEM.
The program is a collaboration between the College of Engineering, Applied Science & Technology and the Provost’s Office, which oversees Hispanic-Serving Institution Initiatives led by executive director Yudi Lewis.
Lewis saw success from initiatives she had helped develop at other universities, and wanted to bring something similar to Weber State.
“At Weber State, we focus on serving our students and community,” Lewis said. “This program is a powerful way we demonstrate our deep, intentional commitment to the people of Utah.”
Classes rotate on a three-year cycle. This year’s offerings are Fundamentals of Computing and Web Design and Usability. The program includes one course within the major and one class that fulfills general education requirements.
While rigorous, classes are supported by guidance from peer mentors. Also included are guest speakers, resume and interview workshops, and academic advising, giving students an introduction to the college experience and a significant head start in higher education.
Industry field trips, where students can explore career paths at places like Adobe, can help them make connections between their learning and the real world. Alicia Christensen, director of outreach for the College of EAST, said this gives students the opportunity to envision themselves joining this essential sector of Utah’s workforce.
The program welcomed 20 students this year, up from 17 in its pilot year, and continues to grow. Participants come from all over northern Utah, including Ogden, Logan, and as far as Kamas.
Envisioneering receives financial support from the Utah State Board of Education’s Career and Technical Education program, Hill Air Force Base’s STEM Outreach, federal Perkins grant funding, and the Noorda and Miller Foundations.
“At the end of the program, we want our students to walk away saying ‘Weber State believes in my potential,’” Lewis said. “They leave empowered, thinking ‘I can do this. And I will.’”
Ashlee Ellinwood, Marketing & Communications
- Contact:
Bryan Magaña, public relations director
801-626-7948, bryanmagana@weber.edu