NORTH ADAMS, Mass.—Applications are open for the 2023 Berkshire Bank STEM Academy for incoming first-year students at MCLA. 

 

The program accepts up to 15 students enrolled in a STEM major or who have expressed interest in STEM fields. The 2023 program will run from July 23 to July 27. The deadline to apply is July 1.  

 

Designed to introduce incoming students to careers in STEM, the residential, five-day academy includes networking opportunities with STEM faculty, students, and staff to aid in deepening the relationship with those in STEM careers in the Berkshires.  

 

Developed to serve low-income and first-generation college students, applicants are selected based on survey results taken upon college acceptance. Berkshire Bank STEM Academy alumni have pursued leadership roles at MCLA as residential advisors, tutors, and supplemental instructors, while graduates of the program have obtained careers at Raytheon, General Dynamics, Edge Pharma, and as public school teachers. 

 

During the residential program, students will explore concepts in biology, chemistry, computer science, mathematics, environmental science, psychology, and physics through laboratory work and meetings with faculty. The program's goal is to encourage students to seek jobs in the Berkshires post-graduation with the hopes of staying in the community. There is additional programming planned throughout the year for the cohort. Past events have included networking opportunities, social gatherings, and workshops on college life and financial management.  

 

To apply, contact Sara Steele at Sara.Steele@mcla.edu, at 413-662-5518, or online: mcla.edu/STEMAcademy.