STEP seniors attending college for various studies after high school graduation

For Mathilda Phan, a senior at Rush-Henrietta High School, being a part of the Science and Technology Entry Program has helped her learn more about college and career opportunities. The longtime member of STEP said she’s most interested in seeking a degree in the medical field and plans to attend Monroe Community College after high school graduation.

“It’s certainly helped a lot since I’ve been with STEP since seventh grade,” Phan said about how STEP has influenced her college and career endeavors. “I’ve been on a ton of college tours, learning what college has to offer and what career paths I may be interested in. I see myself directed toward the medical field.”

Phan is among 34 seniors involved in the state-funded program through Rochester Institute of Technology’s K-12 University Center who have committed to pursuing higher education. Other colleges and universities STEP scholars plan to attend are Alfred State, Finger Lakes Community College, Gannon University, Manhattan College, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Niagara University, North Carolina A&T University, North Carolina Central University, Roberts Wesleyan, St. John Fisher, SUNY Cobleskill, University of Rochester and Wingate University.

STEP is a precollegiate initiative that provides outreach to seventh- through 12th-grade students from underrepresented and economically disadvantaged groups to support pursuing college and careers in STEM fields, as well as New York state licensed professions. The goal is to provide afterschool and weekend enrichment activities to help foster academic growth, the development of a STEM identity and more, so students can successfully transition from middle school to high school and high school to college or the workforce.

“I got involved in STEP in middle school after a friend suggested it, and it turned out to be one of the best things I was able to be a part of,” Phan said. “I suggest for other students to try it, and go in with a curious mind and enjoy the opportunities ahead.”